NASA’s Perseverance Rover Finds Buried Ancient River Delta on Mars

NASA’s Perseverance Rover Finds Buried Ancient River Delta on Mars
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NASA’s Perseverance rover has discovered a buried ancient river delta beneath the surface of Mars, giving some of the oldest evidence yet that water once flowed on the Red Planet.

Using its ground‑penetrating radar instrument, scientists mapped layered sediments and geological structures deep under the surface of Jezero Crater—a site believed to have hosted a lake billions of years ago. The radar data show delta‑like formations dating back about 3.7 to 4.2 billion years, indicating long‑lasting water flow into the crater.

Researchers say the find strengthens evidence that Mars once had a warmer, wetter climate capable of supporting environments that could preserve clues about past life. The results are based on data collected by Perseverance’s RIMFAX radar between September 2023 and February 2024.

Since landing in 2021, Perseverance has been exploring Jezero Crater, where scientists believe ancient river channels fed into a lake. Earlier research by the mission also identified rock samples that may contain potential biosignatures, though some minerals could form through non-biological processes.