Life coming to earth from space

    Where is the Mars Spirit Rover now? Unfortunately stuck in some dust, but still doing a great job of observing conditions on Mars. Also, life coming to earth from space is a concept that has been studied for centuries. Find out more in this week’s SkyTalk.

    Image credit: NASA

    Where is the Mars Spirit Rover now? Unfortunately stuck in some dust, but still doing a great job of observing conditions on Mars. Even though we can’t be there we might get a closer look at Mars this month as it approaches earth. The difference won’t be too significant, but worth a look through a telescope or with the naked eye. Also, life coming to earth from space is a concept that has been studied for centuries. It’s called “panspermia” and has been a topic of interest since the 5th century B.C. Recent analysis is focused on how this process can come about. Possibly through comets passing over earth or meteoritic material falling onto earth, which happens all the time. But how can life withstand the cold and harsh conditions? So far our proof lies in virus’ that still grow even after being taken back to earth from space.

    Listen:
    [audio: st20100201.mp3]

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