BEIJING, Feb. 23 (Xinhuanet) -- Images transmited by a European space probe reveal the existence of a sea of ice close to the equator of Mars, thus the chances of present microscopic life have become greater.  

Images relayed by a European space probe reveal the existence of a sea of ice close to the equator of Mars, scientists said Tuesday at a conference in the Netherlands. The existence of water or ice would significantly increase the chance that microscopic life may also be found on Mars.

    "This is a historic moment for Mars exploration when a previously neglected region reveals its secrets," Jan-Peter Muller of the University College London said in a statement. "Speculations that this area might have water close to the surface have been shown to be correct."

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¡¤Researchers may have found life on Mars

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¡¤Mars rovers find new signs of water

¡¤Water-methane link strengthens life-on-Mars clues

    Small quantities of methane were previously detected in the Martian atmosphere by the European Space Agency's Mars Express orbiter. Methane could be a byproduct of biological activity, or it could be the result of nonbiological processes.   

    "Higher levels of methane over the same area mean that primitive micro-organisms might survive on Mars today," the statement reads.

    Researchers stress that while liquid water is a key ingredient for life as we know it, the presence of water does not mean life ever got started.

    The findings were discussed at a major conference in Noordwijk which concludes Friday. Enditem

    (Agencies)