Testing S isotopes as biomarkers for Mars

Abstract

AbstractWe suggest testing S isotopes as biomarkers for Mars. An analogous robust biosignature has recently been proposed for the forthcoming exploration of the icy surface of Europa, and in the long term for the exploration of the surfaces of other icy moons of the outer solar system. We discuss relevant instrumentation for testing the presence of life itself in some sites, whether extinct or extant in order to complement a set of other independent biosignatures. We pay special attention to the possible early emergence of sulphate-metabolizing microorganisms, as it happened on the early Earth. Fortunately, possible sites happen to be at likely landing sites for future missions ExoMars and Mars 2020, including Oxia Planum and Mawrth Vallis. We suggest how to make additional feasible use of the instruments that have already been approved for future missions. With these instruments, the proposed measurements can allow testing S isotopes on Mars, especially with the Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer.