Mars Reveals Its Secrets!

In a groundbreaking discovery, Chinese scientists, alongside global collaborators, have confirmed the existence of a solid inner core within Mars. This historic find marks the first time such a core has been detected in a planet beyond Earth.

What They Found!

The scientific team identified a solid inner core measuring approximately 600 kilometers in radius, which is about one-fifth of Mars' total radius. This impressive feat was achieved by analyzing the signals from marsquakes, unveiling a layered core structure that comprises both a liquid outer core and the solid inner core.

An Echo of Earth’s Discovery!

This revelation is reminiscent of the confirmation of Earth's inner core, which took decades to verify after its initial inference in 1936. For Mars, data began to flow in just a few years ago; the first marsquakes were recorded in 2018, and the team has since cataloged over 1,000 seismic events. Despite the presence of weak signals and background noise, researchers skillfully extracted clear evidence of the solid core.

The Composition of Mars' Inner Core!

The study further suggests that Mars' inner core is likely made of a crystalline iron-nickel alloy, enriched with lighter elements. This includes 12-16% sulfur, 6.7-9% oxygen, and up to 3.8% carbon. Such details not only advance our understanding of Mars' geological makeup but also provide critical insights into the planet’s magnetic history—highlighting its former magnetic field and current absence.

A Milestone in Planetary Exploration!

The confirmation of a solid inner core on Mars is a monumental step forward in the field of planetary science, offering a fresh perspective to compare Mars’ evolution with Earth's and other terrestrial planets. This exciting discovery opens doors to deeper investigations into the mysteries of our neighboring red planet!