Mars is about half the size of Earth by diameter and has a much thinner atmosphere, with an atmospheric volume less than 1% of Earth’s. The atmospheric composition is also significantly different: primarily carbon dioxide-based, while Earth’s is rich in nitrogen and oxygen. The atmosphere has evolved: evidence on the surface suggest that Mars was once much warmer and wetter.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvqANiuGcyo
Investigating the possibility of past or present life on Mars is a central focus of Mars exploration efforts, including the ESA–Roscosmos ExoMars mission. The ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter is equipped to analyze the composition of trace gases in the Martian atmosphere, which constitute less than 1% of its volume. Despite their small proportion, these gases, especially methane, offer valuable insights into the planet’s current geological and biological activity.
On Earth, methane is primarily produced by living organisms. It is a major component of natural hydrocarbon gas reserves, with additional contributions from volcanic and hydrothermal activity. Given the significant role of biological processes in generating methane on our planet, it is imperative to verify the presence of methane on Mars and discern its potential origins. This task is of utmost importance for the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter mission.
The planetary sizes depicted in this graphic are not proportional to their actual scales. The atmospheric data for Mars were collected by NASA’s Curiosity rover.