By: Nicole Kazmierczak
NASA has recently confirmed that there is liquid water flowing on present-day Mars. The discovery comes after many years of research on the desert planet. Typically when you hear about water on a planet like Mars, you would think of ancient or frozen water thought to be embedded beneath the surface. This time, however, the water is ebbing and flowing as it would on Earth, no matter how little the amount.
Earth was originally thought to be the most unique local planet as it was thought to be the only place from which to get a drink of that liquid wonder. But as history has proven, one should not assume, especially in science. Humans could potentially relocate to Mars if Earth ever becomes uninhabitable in the distant future. However, we shouldn’t be reaching for a nice cold glass of refreshing Mars water the next time we find ourselves feeling parched. That is, unless you enjoy dirty, salty water. The only reason this Martian water is able to exist is because it is salty and dirty, full of a type of hydrated salt called perchlorate. The perchlorate is what allows the water to exist in the harsh and cold environment that Mars provides.
Despite this discovery being amazing as it is, and how much more amazing it would be if we could get a sample, the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 prevents any nation on Earth from sending a robot or human close to a foreign water source on as the source could become contaminated. While any equipment or rovers sent to Mars are sterilized as much as possible, there is still the chance that a microbial hitchhiker is along for the ride.
The discovery of water on Mars is one of hope and inspiration. If water exists, who knows what else could be out there? The opportunity for colonization on Mars is now even more real, although a long way from happening. It just goes to show – don’t judge a dusty red planet by its cover!
