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UF-linked research: Curiosity rover finds new organic compounds on Mars

NASA’s Curiosity rover has detected a diverse array of organic molecules on Mars, including nitrogen- and sulfur-bearing compounds similar to life’s building blocks on Earth, in an experiment conducted for the first time on another planet. The discovery shows the Martian surface is capable of preserving such molecules, which could serve as indicators of ancient life. However, researchers note the findings cannot determine whether the compounds originated from past Martian life, geological processes, or meteorite delivery.

Sources: UF News