Scientists were shocked when they received the first images of Martian gullies. They were even more shocked as those gullies appeared to change over time. Their similarities to gullies seen on Earth were uncanny, but all of Earth's gullies are formed by water runoff, and Mars is too cold and has too sparse an atmosphere to have liquid water on its surface. Whatever has been causing those changing gullies couldn't have been water, so what was it? A new paper from Apolline Leclef of the Institut d'Astrophysique Spatiale at Université Paris-Saclay and her colleagues, available on the arXiv preprint server, shows how they are likely caused by CO2 frost turning into a fluid.
❓ Unknown
New Research Suggests CO2 Frost Causes Changing Martian Gullies
5d ago
September 11, 2026
1 min read
📰 Phys.org
📋 Key Takeaway
Scientists have discovered that the changing gullies on Mars are likely caused by CO2 frost turning into a fluid, rather than water runoff as previously thought. The research, led by Apolline Leclef from Université Paris-Saclay, challenges existing theories about Martian geology. This discovery does not directly relate to Iran but highlights advancements in planetary science.
🔍 Quick Context Guide
💡 Bottom Line:
The discovery of CO2 frost as a factor in Martian gully formation reshapes our understanding of the planet's geology.
👥 Key Players
Apolline Leclef
MENTIONED
Lead researcher
"Her research contributes to understanding planetary geology, which can influence scientific collaboration and technology development in countries like Iran."
Institut d'Astrophysique Spatiale
MENTIONED
Research institution
"This institution is involved in cutting-edge space research, which can inspire similar initiatives in Iran's scientific community."
📰 What Happened
Researchers have discovered that the changing gullies on Mars are likely caused by CO2 frost turning into a fluid, rather than by water runoff as previously believed. This finding challenges existing theories about Martian geology.
- The gullies on Mars were initially thought to be formed by liquid water.
- The new research suggests that CO2 frost is responsible for the changes observed in these gullies.
💡 Why It Matters
🇮🇷 For Iran: Advancements in planetary science can inspire Iranian scientists and promote investment in space research and technology.
🌍 Regional: This research may encourage collaboration among Middle Eastern countries in space exploration initiatives.
🌐 International: The findings could influence international space missions and funding, as understanding Mars is a priority for many space agencies.
📚 Background
Mars has long been a subject of fascination due to its similarities to Earth, particularly in geological features. Understanding its surface processes is crucial for future exploration.
Planetary geology
Space exploration
📡 Source:
NEUTRAL
📊 Confidence:
70%
The article presents scientific findings and is based on research published in a reputable preprint server, indicating a focus on factual reporting.
🌐
Translated from the original and edited for English readers. View original source →
Translation confidence: 100%
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