.png)
The origin of Recurring Slope Linea, the lengthy, black lines that sweep over the Martian surface for hundreds of feet, has long been debated. They occur during the warmer season and are regarded as one of the most persuasive evidence that liquid water may still exist on Mars, implying a unique niche of habitability on an otherwise barren planet. However, a recent study by academics from Brown University and the University of Bern calls this notion into question. Using machine learning and satellite imagery, scientists discovered evidence that these streaks are caused by dry processes.
Machine learning breakthrough provides new evidence
According to Adomas Valantinas, a postdoctoral researcher at Brown who coauthored the study with Valentin Bickel, a researcher at Bern, a major goal of Mars research is to understand modern-day events on Mars, including the likelihood of liquid water on the surface. This research examined these characteristics and found no indication of water. Their model supports dry formation processes.
Valantinas and Bickel combined nearly 86000 high-resolution satellite photos with a machine learning method for analysis. They produced the first worldwide map of Martian slope streaks, cataloging more than 500,000 distinct features on the planet's surface. This database allows for unparalleled statistical investigation of the origin and location of these streaks.
The researchers utilized the whole streak map to compare the positions of these patterns to environmental variables such as wind speed, temperature, dust collection, and surface hydration. They found no connection between the streaks and water or frost. Rather, these characteristics are more prevalent in places with strong wind activity and dust deposition.
Future of Mars Exploration
This study contributes to a better understanding of the present Martian surface activity. The streak locations were addressed with caution because to environmental contamination concerns. By ruling out the idea of liquid water as the source of streaks, the study effectively eliminates the likelihood of Earth-based contamination.
