Ideas or Questions About Mars:
One idea I have about Mars is the potential for ancient microbial life, as past missions have discovered evidence of water in the form of ice and dried-up riverbeds. I also wonder how the planet's thin atmosphere affects current conditions and whether it might support any form of life today.
Signs of Habitability on Mars:
To determine Mars' habitability, I would look for the presence of liquid water, as it is essential for life as we know it. Additionally, I would examine the planet's soil composition and atmosphere for essential nutrients and elements like carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen, which are crucial for supporting living organisms.
Why Look for These Signs of Habitability:
I would focus on these signs because the presence of liquid water is one of the primary indicators of potential habitability. Furthermore, understanding the soil and atmospheric conditions can help us assess whether Mars could have supported life in the past or if there are still niches where life might exist today.