Searching for alien life

Scientists have created a new machine-learning tool that could assist in the search for extraterrestrial life on Mars and other planets.

Exploring lifeforms

Scientists have mapped the lifeforms in Salar de Pajonales, a salt basin located in the Chilean Atacama Desert, which has conditions similar to that of Mars.

Discovering life patterns

Researchers trained a machine learning model to recognize patterns and rules associated with the distribution of life in these harsh regions.

AI locates biosignatures

The new system, which combines statistical ecology with AI, could locate and detect biosignatures up to 87.5% of the time, reducing the area needed for search by 97%.

Predicting nature patterns

Such machine learning tools could be employed in robotic missions like the Perseverance rover, which is currently probing Mars, and future exploratory space missions.