By Jessica Park
Have you ever wondered if there are spiders on Mars? Well, the answer is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. The European Space Agency (ESA) recently shared some incredible images of dark formations, known as “spiders” or “ice spiders”. Let’s uncover the truth behind these mysterious formations.
What Are Martian “Spiders”?
The two pictures above show the images capture on Mars. The formations reported by ESA are called “ice spiders,” but don’t worry—they’re not actual spiders. Instead, these “ice spiders” are named for their spider-like appearance. The term “spiders” was also a fun reference to David Bowie’s famous backing band from the 1970s, the Spiders from Mars.
How Do “Ice Spiders” Form on Mars?
Mars has many notable topographical features, including Hellas Planitia (a massive impact crater) and Olympus Mons (the largest extinct volcano in the Solar System). The “spiders” are among the planet’s most intriguing and visually striking seasonal phenomena. So, if they’re not real spiders, what are they? The Martian “ice spiders” are actually unique geological features that form due to seasonal changes on the planet. Here’s how it works:
- The “spiders” form due to seasonal changes on Mars.
- During the Martian winter, carbon dioxide layers build up on the surface.
- In spring, sunlight causes the carbon dioxide ice to turn into gas, which bursts through the ice, dragging dark material to the surface.
- This process creates geysers that result in dark, spider-shaped patterns.
These fascinating processes were captured by ESA’s Mars Express spacecraft and the CaSSIS instrument on the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter. Studying these Martian “ice spiders” is not just about cool pictures. Scientists are interested in these formations because they help us understand more about the planet’s atmosphere and seasonal changes. By examining how the carbon dioxide gas erupts and forms these patterns, researchers can learn more about Mars’ weather and climate.
The Bigger Picture
Mars is full of amazing geological wonders. The ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter is part of a collaboration between ESA and Russia’s space agency, Roscosmos. This mission aims to study the traces of methane and other gases in the Martian atmosphere. Another part of this collaboration is the Rosalind Franklin rover, which has been delayed until 2028 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the severance of ties with Roscosmos after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Understanding Mars and its many mysteries helps scientists piece together the history of our Solar System. Who knows? One day, humans might visit or even live on Mars. The more we learn now, the better prepared we will be for the future. So, while there aren’t any eight-legged spiders on Mars, the truth behind these Martian “ice spiders” is just as fascinating. Keep exploring, stay curious, and who knows what other wonders we’ll discover next!
