The Mystery of ALH84001: Mars' Most Controversial Meteorite

What is the significance of the meteorite ALH84001?

• It is the oldest rock on Earth.

• It might contain evidence of alien life.

• It is the largest meteorite found on Earth.

• It was the first meteorite found in Antarctica.

Who discovered the unusual characteristics of ALH84001?

• Percival Lowell

• Bill Clinton

• David Mittlefehldt

• Roberta Score

What did the Viking missions fail to find on Mars?

• Signs of liquid water

• Evidence of life

• Volcanoes

• Craters

What did David McKay's team find in ALH84001 that suggested the possibility of life?

• Radioactive elements

• Large fossils

• Traces of oxygen

• Carbonate minerals and magnetite crystals

What was Kathie Thomas-Keprta's initial stance on the possibility of life on Mars?

• She had no opinion.

• She was indifferent.

• She was skeptical.

• She was a firm believer.

What did the presence of magnetite crystals in ALH84001 suggest?

• The possibility of biological activity.

• The rock had been exposed to high temperatures.

• The rock was from an asteroid.

• The rock was from Earth's core.

What was the reaction of the scientific community to the findings about ALH84001?

• Mixed opinions and ongoing debate

• Unanimous agreement

• Immediate acceptance

• Complete dismissal

What was one of the outcomes of the excitement around ALH84001 for NASA?

• A focus on lunar exploration

• The cancellation of Mars missions

• A decrease in public interest

• Increased funding and the creation of the Astrobiology Institute

What did the discovery of ALH84001 help scientists learn more about?

• The early solar system and Martian history

• The atmosphere of Venus

• The composition of Earth's core

• The surface of the Moon

What was one of the challenges faced by NASA in the early 90s?

• Lack of interest in space exploration

• Excessive funding

• Too many successful Mars landings

• Overwhelming success of all missions