Scientists in China say they have discovered that a type of moss would survive on Mars.
Syntrichia caninervis is type of moss usually found in regions such an Antartica or the Mojave desert.
But now, scientists has been found that it can survive Mars-like-conditions including drought, high levels of radiation and extreme cold.
I’m going to go fully Red Mars here and say that just because we can, doesn’t mean we should. We need to study the red planet completely before we even think about contaminating it with biologicals.
Agree. Although, completely is a broad term. Someone will always have an excuse not to.
But we def need to ensure we have a 100% clear idea of no ecology. Plus a clear mapping and review of all geology.
But honestly. Before actual terraforming. We need the tech to build an artificial magnetic field. Anything else, honesty can only be generating atmosphere within enclosed environments. As plant and human life will not be successful in open air. And any atmosphere will need constant replacement.
This moss can apparently survive for a short time. So would be a huge help. As minor breaches will leave the moss able to produce oxygen. Def bloody useful in any form of colonisation.
And let’s face it. Any true study of the planet. Will need people. Even if most is robotic, the distance from earth is such that having experts on the planet will make a huge difference. 6 to 44 mins for a round flight communication. While doable as we see. Cutting it to near 0 will really be essential for a full investigation. Even with way better AI then we have now.
I disagree. There is no life on Mars today. Proof:
Life needs continued supply of biochemical energy; And there is simply no source for that on Mars except sunlight.
So, that leaves photosynthetically active organisms as the only possible form of life. But to be photosynthetically active, you have to be exposed to the sunlight; in other words, you have to grow on the surface, and be visible from outer space. So it is enough to check the surface to find out whether there’s life on Mars or not. And there appears not to be.
You are probably right, but how cool would it be if we are wrong.
Also, any evidence of life that may have been existed on Mars previously would be erased.
I assume you have read the Kim Stanley Robinson trilogy. When I read it, as a teenager, I was definitely a Green-Mars proponent, but as I grew up learnt more about palaeontology and geology, I became more of a Red-Mars proponent.