Microbes On Mars

A new study suggests that Earthly microorganisms that manage to get tucked away on Mars-bound spacecraft probably wouldn't contaminate the Red Planet.

The study exposed microbes known to be able to survive the space environment for an extended period to a simulated Mars environment for seven days. While the microbes weren't destroyed, neither did they replicate, and if they can't replicate in that environment, they can't contaminate it.

Longer studies need to be done, but this one suggests the notion that Earthly life set free on Mars might run amok and destroy the Martian life we're trying to find might not be realistic. Still, NASA is working to raise the standards of sterility for future spacecraft destined to explore areas where alien life might be a possibility.