Why is this so important?
For decades, scientists and everyday citizens have marveled at the idea of finding and eventually cultivating life on another planet, Mars in particular. So any time there is a breakthrough that takes us a step closer to making that vision a reality, it's a pretty big deal. We've sent rovers that have landed on Mars in the past, and they have been very effective at obtaining critical information pertaining to the planet. However, these expeditions take far too long and cost too much money to do all the time, which is why finding a spot on Earth with Mars-like conditions is mouthwatering. It seems as though now we can move at a much faster pace toward the light at the end of the tunnel, and the ultimate goal we have in mind appears much more feasible.
A map of the Danakil Depression in relation to Ethiopia
Why did I choose this article to write about? I have always been extremely fascinated with the possibility of life on Mars and other planets. I see so much potential in the human race to eventually encompass the entire solar system, but anywhere in between is still exciting. When I stumbled across this reading, I was surprised I hadn't heard about it yet. I thought this had to be a popular talking point for sure, but nobody had bothered to bring it up in any facets of my life.
I truly hope to see that our scientists take this discovery very seriously and do everything in their power to not slow down until we have a lead on something. I want to know what, if anything at all, they can determine will be a possible life form we can see on Mars and how it differs from what we have here on Earth. Life on Mars is one of the main things I would like to witness in my lifetime and I sincerely wish that this doesn't become a desire in the next century.