Was there ever life on Mars? Planetary scientists think there could have been but there hasn't been any direct evidence. After years of roaming Mars, NASA's Perseverance rover saw spots on Mars rocks. These spots could be the most likely clue that Mars had organic life millions of years ago. Host Regina G. Barber speaks with recent PhD graduate and planetary scientist Hemani Kalucha . She explains why the size, shape and color of these spots – as well as the location of these rocks on Mars – point to ancient life.

Interested in more alien science? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org .

Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave .

Listen to Short Wave on Spotify

See Full Page