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<p>Sulfate minerals are widely distributed across various geological settings on Earth and provide critical insights into a range of geochemical processes and environmental evolution. Both modern and ancient sulfates possess exceptional potential for preserving biosignatures. Recent studies utilizing remote sensing and <i>in situ</i> exploration techniques have identified extensive sulfate-bearing deposits on the Martian surface. Investigating the habitability and the potential for biosignature preservation in these regions is a key focus in the search for life on Mars. Therefore, this review synthesizes the types, distribution, and formation environments of terrestrial sulfate minerals and summarizes the occurrence and preservation characteristics of biosignatures within both modern and ancient terrestrial sulfates. In light of the current understanding of the occurrence of Martian sulfates, the study further explores the potential for biosignature preservation within Martian sulfate deposits. Finally, drawing on results from current <i>in situ</i> life-detection missions and the objectives of forthcoming Mars sample return missions, this paper provides scientific recommendations for biosignature detection strategies and landing site selection in future Mars exploration missions.</p>

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Preservation characteristics of biosignatures in sulfates and their implications for the search for life on Mars

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年8月19日

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  • Yihao Xie,
  • Ting Huang,
  • Jiannan Zhao,
  • David C. Fernández-Remolar

摘要

Sulfate minerals are widely distributed across various geological settings on Earth and provide critical insights into a range of geochemical processes and environmental evolution. Both modern and ancient sulfates possess exceptional potential for preserving biosignatures. Recent studies utilizing remote sensing and in situ exploration techniques have identified extensive sulfate-bearing deposits on the Martian surface. Investigating the habitability and the potential for biosignature preservation in these regions is a key focus in the search for life on Mars. Therefore, this review synthesizes the types, distribution, and formation environments of terrestrial sulfate minerals and summarizes the occurrence and preservation characteristics of biosignatures within both modern and ancient terrestrial sulfates. In light of the current understanding of the occurrence of Martian sulfates, the study further explores the potential for biosignature preservation within Martian sulfate deposits. Finally, drawing on results from current in situ life-detection missions and the objectives of forthcoming Mars sample return missions, this paper provides scientific recommendations for biosignature detection strategies and landing site selection in future Mars exploration missions.