Long-chain alkanes preserved in Martian mudstone
By 
Jamie Durrani2025-04-02T08:30:00
Molecules could have derived from biological fatty acids, although abiotic origins are also possible
Three long-chain alkanes detected by Nasa’s Curiosity rover could be chemical biosignatures that point to a history of past life on Mars, according to an international team of researchers. However, the team notes that the compounds may also have inorganic origins.