Mars Was Wetter Than Previously Thoght, New Study Reveals Ancient River Systems
A recent analysis of data from two Mars orbiters has uncovered evidence of extensive ancient river systems in the Noachis Terra region of Mars, suggesting the Red planet experienced a significantly wetter climate billions of years ago than previously understood.
The findings, presented at the National Astronomy Meeting 2025, indicate that the widespread distribution of sinuous ridges, characteristic of ancient riverbeds, points to a similarly widespread source of water. Researchers believe precipitation was the most probable source, implying a more benign surface habitat on early Mars.
According to the study, the formation of mature, interconnected river systems, some tens of meters high, woudl have required these favorable conditions to persist for a geologically important period. This suggests that approximately 3.7 billion years ago, the Noachis Terra region of Mars likely experienced prolonged warm and wet conditions.
The research, drawing on data from Mars orbiters, was highlighted by the Royal Astronomical Society and further explored in related articles discussing precipitation on ancient Mars and the potential for microbial life in Martian clays.