Ramifications of a sterile Mars

Gilbert V. Levin

doi:10.1117/12.892347

23 September 2011 Ramifications of a sterile Mars

Gilbert V. Levin

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 8152, Instruments, Methods, and Missions for Astrobiology XIV; 81520C (2011) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.892347
Event: SPIE Optical Engineering + Applications, 2011, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

The seldom considered ramifications of a sterile Mars are explored. Very much is now known about the environment on Mars. Herein, the individual and collective environmental parameters are examined with particular consideration of those that might be inimical to life as we know it, or as might reasonably be assumed to be so to alien life. It is shown that no single measurement or combination of them precludes the ability of Mars to support even a wide number of terrestrial microbial species, let alone the likely greater tolerance and/or adaptability of possible alien life forms. Some yet unknown factor or combination of factors would have to be responsible for Mars' failure to generate life or to successfully harbor viable forms received from space. Since Mars is so Earth-like, the red planet's sterility could deliver a fatal blow to the growing concept of a cosmic Biologic Imperative, and would raise the daunting prospect that Earth is a unique or a very rare habitat.

Citation Download Citation

Gilbert V. Levin "Ramifications of a sterile Mars", Proc. SPIE 8152, Instruments, Methods, and Missions for Astrobiology XIV, 81520C (23 September 2011); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.892347

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