For the first time, researchers have observed a visible Martian aurora, a subtle green glow that hangs low in the Martian sky. The observation was made by the Perseverance rover on March 18, 2024, and suggests that future astronauts may witness ethereal Martian auroras with their own eyes. The discovery was made possible by the rover’s cameras, which captured the aurora’s dim green glow.
Forecast for 6 months: As more data is collected from the Perseverance rover, scientists will refine their understanding of Martian auroras, potentially leading to new insights into the planet’s magnetic field and atmosphere.
Forecast for 1 year: NASA and other space agencies will likely plan new missions to study Martian auroras in more detail, potentially including a manned mission to witness the phenomenon firsthand.
Forecast for 5 years: As the study of Martian auroras continues, scientists may discover new patterns and behaviors that could help inform the search for life on Mars, potentially leading to new missions and discoveries.
Forecast for 10 years: The study of Martian auroras could lead to a greater understanding of the planet’s habitability and potentially pave the way for human settlements on Mars, with the aurora serving as a natural light source.
