Atomic oxygen has been detected on in Mars’ upper atmosphere, NASA reported. While that certainly doesn’t mean humans will be living and breathing up there soon, it could be a chance to create water on the red planet with a new method.
NASA FINDS ATOMIC OXYGEN ON MARS
For the first time in decades, NASA has found atomic oxygen in Mars atmosphere. Atomic oxygen in the Martian atmosphere is incredibly difficult to measure, which is why NASA has been unable to trace it for so long. With SOFIA‘s highly sensitive instruments, however, it was now possible. Atomic oxygen is far from what we have here on Earth, however, it will help NASA find out what gases escape the red planet. Perhaps NASA can find other uses for the atomic oxygen in the near future.
NEW WAY TO MAKE WATER DISCOVERED
Scientists at the University of Illinois have discovered a new way to make water. A water molecule is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. What scientists can now do is now make this combination from unlikely materials like alcohols. Also, their work may lead to less expensive fuel cells. With oxygen and hydrogen found on Mars, the possibility to create water on the surface may be possible. Although, they’d have to get rid of the whole atomic aspect of the oxygen first.
GETTING HYDROGEN IN SPACE
Mars may look like a desolate wasteland and for the most part, it is. However, it’s increasingly full of secrets. It’s already possible for scientists to extract hydrogen from Mars for fuel. Now that atomic oxygen has been found, the possibility of making water is there. Granted, it’s not as simple as sticking together oxygen and hydrogen. Obviously, some adjustments will need to be made. First of all, obtaining hydrogen from the soil of the red planet is no easy task. The soil needs to me heated in a strange pressure cooker of sorts to create steam. The steam is then given electrolysis and suddenly, hydrogen exists. There may not be life on the planet now, but given these advancements in technology, humans may roam the surface soon enough.
