European Space Agency Captures Mysterious Spider-Like Shapes on Mars Surface

The European Space Agency's Mars Express and ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) spacecraft have captured intriguing images of mysterious 'spider-like' shapes on the surface of Mars.

These dark spots, ranging from 45 meters to 1 kilometer across, are indicative of subterranean activity and potentially suggest the presence of hidden arachnid-like formations beneath the icy surface.

The spider-like features, known as 'araneiforms' or 'spiders from Mars,' are actually dark cracks in the Martian soil that form when spring sunshine causes frozen carbon dioxide on the planet's surface to turn into gas, creating jets that break through the ice. The emerging jets of gas, laden with dark dust, create the distinctive spider-like patterns on the surface.

The Mars Express orbiter captured images showing the dark surface spots, while the TGO perspective revealed the spidery, web-like channels carved into the ice below. "The TGO has imaged the spiders' tendril-like patterns especially clearly, capturing the web-like channels carved into the ice below," according to the European Space Agency.

Why this matters: The discovery of these unique geological formations on Mars provides valuable insights into the planet's seasonal changes and atmospheric composition. Understanding the processes that shape the Martian surface is essential for future exploration and the search for potential signs of past life.

The majority of the dark spots were observed on the outskirts of an area nicknamed 'Inca City' near Mars' south polar cap. Inca City, also known as Angustus Labyrinthus, is a mysterious geological formation that may have been created by sand dunes, magma, or glaciers. Scientists speculate that this area lies within a large crater formed by a meteorite impact, with subsequent geological processes shaping its distinct features.

The phenomenon of 'spiders from Mars' is unique to the Red Planet and is linked to its seasonal changes and atmospheric composition, which is mostly carbon dioxide. While there is no life on Mars currently, the planet was once thought to have been covered in a liquid ocean, making the possibility of past life more promising.

As the exploration of Mars continues, the European Space Agency's Mars Express orbiter and ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter are providing detailed insights into the planet's dynamic geology, atmosphere, and environment. These observations contribute to our understanding of Mars' mysterious geological past and the potential for future discoveries on the Red Planet.

Key Takeaways

• ESA's Mars orbiters captured 'spider-like' shapes on Mars surface
• These 'araneiforms' are dark cracks formed by CO2 gas jets breaking through ice
• The 'spiders' provide insights into Mars' seasonal changes and atmospheric composition
• The 'Inca City' area may have been shaped by sand dunes, magma, or glaciers
• Mars' past potential for life makes these geological discoveries significant