[LIFE] Reports of viable microorganisms from ancient halite create an unusual test of the biological limits of cellular survival.
Halite
Posted inBiosignatures & Paleobiology
A Dual-mineral Protection Mechanism For Organic Matter Preservation And Its Implications For Mars Habitability And Biosignature Detection
[Communications Earth & Environment] Understanding organic matter preservation in extreme environments is crucial for detecting potential biosignatures on Mars.
Posted inAstrochemistry, Astrogeology, Atmospheres, Climate, Weather, Biosignatures & Paleobiology, Europa, Habitable Zones, Icy Worlds, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Status Report
The Near-Infrared Spectral Characteristics of Water Ice, Epsomite, and Halite Mixtures Relevant to Europa
We publish the first NIR spectra of grain particulate mixtures of water ice, epsomite, and halite at cryogenic temperatures.
Posted inBiosignatures & Paleobiology, Fossils & Paleontology, Habitable Zones, Microbiology & Virology, Origin & Evolution of Life, ROVs/Submersibles/Diving, Sample Return, Status Report, Water/Hycean Worlds & Oceanography
Microbial Diversity Of Coastal Microbial Mats Formations In Karstic Habitats From The Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico
In this study, we report for the first time an exploration of the physicochemical characteristics and the prokaryotic diversity of three different types of microbial mats from karstic habitats located […]
Posted inAstrogeology, Biochemistry & Organic Chemistry, Biogeochemical Cycles & Geobiology, Biosignatures & Paleobiology, Fossils & Paleontology, Habitable Zones, Imaging & Spectroscopy, Mars, Status Report
Spectral Evidence For Irradiated Halite On Mars
The proposed chloride salt-bearing deposits on Mars have an enigmatic composition due to the absence of distinct spectral absorptions for the unique mineral at all wavelengths investigated.
Posted inAstrochemistry, Astrogeology, Extremeophiles and Extreme Environments, Fossils & Paleontology, Meteorites & Asteroids, Microbiology & Virology, Panspermia, Radiation, Space Weather & Heliophysics, Status Report
Protective Effects of Halite to Vacuum and Vacuum-Ultraviolet Radiation: A Potential Scenario During a Young Sun Superflare
Halite (NaCl mineral) has exhibited the potential to preserve microorganisms for millions of years on Earth. This mineral was also identified on Mars and in meteorites.