Organic matter preservation in ancient soils of Earth and Mars
Broz AP, Horgan B, Polizzotto M, Retallack GJ, Silva LC. Organic matter preservation in ancient soils of Earth and Mars. Research Permit and Reporting System
We use ancient soils at the John Day Fossil Beds National minument as an analog for ancient soils on Mars to investigate the factors contributing to organic carbon preservation. We find that reduced, clay-rich soils have the highest amounts of organic carbon, especially in surface layers. These types of soils have been detected on Mars, and they should be prioritized for biosignature investigation and Mars Sample Return.
- Type
- Unpublished Report
- Authors
- Broz, Adrian; Horgan, Briony; Polizzotto, Matt; Retallack, Greg; Silva, Lucas
- Publisher
- Research Permit and Reporting System
- Units
- JODA