Scientific logic for life on Mars

Gilbert V. Levin

doi:10.1117/12.454778

5 February 2002 Scientific logic for life on Mars

Gilbert V. Levin

Proceedings Volume 4495, Instruments, Methods, and Missions for Astrobiology IV; (2002) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.454778
Event: International Symposium on Optical Science and Technology, 2001, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Scientific findings and theoretical analysis over the past several years have increased the probability from extant life on Mars. Discoveries have revealed terrestrial organisms flourishing in environments thought hostile and barren of life. Experiments with extremophile organisms, including some of those newly discovered, have demonstrated their extraordinary and unanticipated hardiness, including under conditions comparable to, or approaching those on present-day Mars. Microorganisms subjected to extreme g forces survived shock as severe as meteoric impact. Calculations and experiments based on Viking data allow for water to be liquid on the surface of Mars for biologically significant periods. Direct observations of Mars by subsequent missions support this likelihood. These new developments provide a workable Panspermia model for the transport, survival and growth of terrestrial life on Mars. No insurmountable obstacles to their survival to the present have been demonstrated. Organisms transported to Mars from Earch and/or from other sources may have been responsible for the positive results returned from Mars by the Viking Labeled Release experiment in 1976. A simple robotic experiment can resolve the issue.

Citation Download Citation

Gilbert V. Levin "Scientific logic for life on Mars", Proc. SPIE 4495, Instruments, Methods, and Missions for Astrobiology IV, (5 February 2002); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.454778

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available