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Project Progress

During the last year:

1. We have initiated study of the mechanical effects of shock deformation on bacteria living in fluids. Initial studies of e. coli at 3 and 15 GPa for 105 ns in vivo with TE buffer are designed to determine mechanical strains required for mortality. Extension of these experiments to lower shock stress, for longer durations, and higher stress, for shorter durations is planned. Studies of magnetotactic bacteria that have higher impedance (Fe₃O₄) structures within a low density matrix are planned.
2. Studies (in collaboration w/U. Arizona) of shock effects on the D/H ratio of water-bearing amphiboles, kaesuterite, similar to that found in SNC meteorites, reported at LPSC,2003 are designed to study the water budget of Mars. We obtained a surprising result that the D/H ratio of shocked (20-30 GPa) samples increased by 5%. Further work on samples will be done.

Project Goals for Next Year

• Continue to conduct detailed studies of the effect of the atmospheres on impact cratering on Mars
• Continue to conduct further speciation of impact vapor studies for minerals
• Continue to study the effect of impact on bacteria.