Scientists have published the first thorough analysis of radiation readings from the surface of another planet. Using its Radiation Assessment Detector (RAD), NASA’s Curiosity rover measured radiation exposure during its journey to Mars, and the amount of radiation present at the planet’s surface.

Radiation and its variations impact not only the planning of human and robotic missions, but also the search for extraterrestrial life. Without substantial atmospheric protection, powerful particles entering the air can penetrate straight into the martian soil. On impacting the surface, Galactic Cosmic Rays and Solar Energy Particles from space produce cascades of other energetic particles. Of these newly produced particles, gamma rays and neutrons are easily capable of breaking molecular bonds in the soil, destroying evidence of past life, as well as any life that may be presently trying to survive there.

“Radiation is probably the key parameter in determining how much alteration organics are experiencing in the rocks on the surface,”said Jennifer Eigenbrode from Goddard Institute of Space Studies, and an author of the paper. “If we find organics on mars, the circumstance in which we find them [the context of the rocks], the history of the rocks, and the chemistry that we find, will help guide our mission strategy.”

The paper, “Mars’ Surface Radiation Environment Measured with the Mars Science Laboratory’s Curiosity Rover,” was published January 24, 2014, in the journal Science.