New research published in Nature Astronomy seeks to understand how surface clay was formed on Mars despite its cold climate. The climate on early Mars has presented an enigma for planetary scientists ...

The planet Mars is home to thick layers of clay that can span hundreds of feet. Since they need water to form, these outcrops have long been of interest to scientists looking for signs of past life on ...

The following essay is reprinted with permission from The Conversation, an online publication covering the latest research. Clay minerals cannot form unless there is water available—it is an essential ...