IDAHO FALLS, Idaho, Oct. 21 (UPI) -- U.S. government scientists say they've developed technology that enables a laser to detect minuscule traces of cells in a mineral likely present on Mars.
Researchers said the instrument they created at the U.S. Department of Energy's Idaho National Laboratory could help scientists select martian surface samples with the most promise for yielding signs of life.
The new laser blasts off tiny bits of mineral and looks for chemical signatures of molecules commonly found in cells. "While other methods require extensive sample handling, this analysis relies on a 'point-and-shoot' laser technique that preserves more of the rock and reduces contamination risk," officials said.
The scientists said they could detect biomolecules at concentrations as low as 3 parts per trillion.
The research is reported in the Geomicrobiology Journal.
