Source: BroBible
Summary
NASA’s Perseverance Rover discovered minerals that form rubies and sapphires embedded in pebbles on Mars. The rover detected tiny corundum grains while exploring the terrain of Jezero Crater. Scientists believe that meteorites striking the Martian surface may have formed the gems by heating and compressing the dust. Researchers used the SuperCam instrument to examine a rock known as Hampden River and found corundum grains.
Our Reading
The discovery gets a new name.
Corundum grains are found on Mars, and scientists are surprised. The gems are usually formed by extreme heat and pressure, but Mars doesn’t have the right conditions. Meteorites might have done the job instead. Researchers used lasers to evaluate the material’s composition and found a match with rubies examined in the lab.
Because what’s a discovery without a little laser-induced luminescence?
Author: Evan Null
