Through a new study published in Nature Communications, scientists analyzed streak features observed by NASA's Viking spacecraft on Mars. Originally thought to be evidence of flowing water, extensive data analysis now indicates these streaks resulted from dry processes. Despite theories suggesting these features could indicate the presence of life-sustaining water, researchers concluded otherwise after reviewing over half a million streaks and comparing them with environmental data. This shifts the focus of Martian research away from the search for liquid water on the surface and highlights insights into the dry Martian environment.
"Our study reviewed these features but found no evidence of water. Our model favors dry formation processes."
"A big focus of Mars research is understanding modern-day processes on Mars - including the possibility of liquid water on the surface."
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