spacetoday.net: Mars rover finds new clues for water

Mars rover finds new clues for water

Posted: Mon, Nov 8, 2004, 8:22 AM ET (1322 GMT)
Mars Exploration Rover (NASA/JPL)

Data collected by NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Spirit has helped scientists understand the history of liquid water in one region of the Red Planet. Scientists said Thursday that data collected by Spirit as it climbs the Columbia Hills within Gusev Crater have led them to conclude that the rocks in that area originated as volcanic ash that fell from the air or flowed along the ground. Minerals in the ash were then altered by flowing water. Spirit continues to work well despite problems with its wheels; project officials said they have been able to successfully work around those problems, although they could be a sign of more mechanical problems to come as both Spirit and Opportunity age.