NASA detects oxygen in the Martian atmosphere

For the first time in 40 years, researchers from the US Aeronautics and Space Agency found oxygen atoms in the middle layer of the red planet.

According to Science Alert, the research team at NASA used stratospheric research aircraft for infrared astronomy (SOFIA), mounted on a machine 13.7km from Earth. Oxygen detection in the stratosphere of Mars can help astronomers learn how air disappears from the red planet.

NASA scientists observe and measure the amount of oxygen atoms on Mars.(Photo: IFL Science).

Although the discovery has important implications in enhancing the understanding of Mars, the potential new home for humanity, the researchers found only half the amount of oxygen expected. The last time oxygen atoms were observed on Mars atmosphere was in the Viking and Mariner missions in the 1970s. The cause is due to the blue sky of the Earth.

"Oxygen atoms in the Martian atmosphere are very difficult to measure. To observe infrared wavelengths and detect oxygen atoms, researchers must be above the Earth's atmosphere and use extremely sensitive equipment. , in this case a spectrometer, SOFIA meets both of these requirements , "said Pamela Marcum, SOFIA project lead scientist.

Previously, Earth's dense and humid atmosphere made it difficult for astronomers to see exactly the outer universe.SOFIA is a Boeing 747SP jet aircraft equipped with a 254cm-diameter telescope that can fly above the Earth's atmosphere to provide a clearer view. The team will continue to use SOFIA to measure other places on Mars to ensure the data they collect is not the result of atmospheric fluctuations.