Cosmic Journeys: Footage of Mars

The video explores the history of water on Mars, using infrared astronomy to reveal that Mars once had a significant ocean covering 20% of its surface. This ocean was about a mile deep and existed for a longer period than previously thought, suggesting Mars was wet for over 1.5 billion years. These findings open up possibilities for Mars' habitability and the evolution of life.

What was a major question regarding Mars' water history?

• How much water did Mars have and how did it lose it?

• What is the chemical composition of Mars' water?

• What is the temperature of water on Mars?

• How does Mars' water compare to Earth's freshwater?

What did the use of infrared telescopes reveal about Mars' water?

• It is completely frozen.

• It is mostly vapor.

• It is similar to Earth's freshwater.

• It is richer in heavy water compared to Earth's oceans.

What percentage of Mars' surface was covered by the ancient ocean?

• 30%

• 10%

• 20%

• 40%

How deep was the ancient ocean on Mars?

• 10000 feet

• 500 feet

• 5000 feet

• 1000 feet

What does the extended wet period on Mars suggest?

• Mars' atmosphere was too thin to support any form of life.

• Mars could have supported life for a longer period than previously thought.

• Mars had a climate similar to Earth's current climate.

• Mars was never habitable.