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New Research Indicates Cosmic Rays Could Be Crucial for Life on Mars

**The Key To Existence On Mars May Involve Cosmic Rays, Per This Recent Research**

The concept of life on Mars appears to be straight out of a “Doctor Who” episode. However, a study published in the [International Journal of Astrobiology](https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/international-journal-of-astrobiology/article/estimating-the-potential-of-ionizing-radiationinduced-radiolysis-for-microbial-metabolism-on-terrestrial-planets-and-satellites-with-rarefied-atmospheres/187F317A3974A2008227C707538785E9) contests this science fiction perspective. The findings indicate that [Mars’ atmosphere](https://www.bgr.com/science/researchers-found-key-evidence-of-how-mars-atmosphere-has-changed-over-the-years/) is sparse, and the planet does not possess a magnetic field, resulting in a continuous barrage of intense radiation from outer space, particularly galactic cosmic rays.

These energetic particles originate from beyond our solar system and are generally regarded as harmful, as they can damage DNA and injure living cells. Nevertheless, the research in the publication proposes that under optimal conditions, this radiation might foster life rather than annihilate it.

Currently, Earth is home to a microorganism that sustains itself entirely on radiation. In a South African gold mine, researchers identified an organism that fuels its metabolism through radiation-driven chemistry, entirely independent of sunlight. The study prompts the inquiry of whether analogous life forms may be lurking beneath the Martian surface, where cosmic rays interact with rocks and ice in a manner conducive to supporting life.

**How cosmic rays could foster life on Mars**

When cosmic rays collide with rocks or ice, they trigger a reaction sequence known as radiolysis. This mechanism breaks down water and other molecules into smaller components, generating energy-dense compounds such as hydrogen and oxidants. These are precisely the types of chemicals that primitive microbes could utilize as sustenance.

The research presents a fresh concept referred to as the radiolytic habitable zone (RHZ). These areas situated beneath the surface could potentially allow cosmic ray-driven reactions to yield sufficient energy to sustain microbial life. Employing simulations, the researchers approximated the depth of this zone on Mars, as well as on Europa, a moon of Jupiter, and Enceladus, a moon of Saturn. The hypothesis is that these RHZs could nurture simple, radiation-powered life forms in locations shielded from the extreme conditions on the surface.

However, this notion remains theoretical, and we are not establishing a [base on Mars](https://www.bgr.com/science/astronomers-found-the-perfect-spot-to-set-up-a-base-on-mars/) at this point. The researchers recognize that the models do not factor in how changes in temperature might influence underground chemistry, nor do they address which types of organic molecules can actually form in such environments. Naturally, because Earth is largely protected from cosmic ray radiation due to its atmosphere and magnetic shield, there are no concrete examples of life developing under these conditions.

**Potential Habitats on Mars**

If the researchers’ hypothesis holds true and life fueled by cosmic rays does exist on Mars, there are a few intriguing locations to investigate. These lie beneath Mars’ polar ice caps. The north pole is named Planum Boreum, and the south pole is referred to as Planum Australe. These extensive ice caps on

Adapters Allow Wireless Apple CarPlay in Previous Model Vehicles

Apple CarPlay is a top-notch method to utilize your iPhone while operating a vehicle. This iOS-compatible infotainment connection has existed since 2014, offering Apple fans a seamless way to utilize navigation features, make calls, send and receive texts, and stream music from popular services like Spotify and Apple Music. Initially, users needed a USB cable to connect their iPhone to their car, but manufacturers quickly started to support Wireless CarPlay via Bluetooth.

If you happened to acquire a CarPlay-compatible vehicle prior to 2022, it’s likely that it only supports a wired connection. However, if you’re looking to enhance a wired-only CarPlay system with wireless capabilities, many third-party manufacturers offer Wireless CarPlay adapters. Here at BGR, we take pride in our knowledge of iPhones, so we’ve compiled a list of five of our preferred Wireless CarPlay adapters available on the market.

Android Smartphones Are Embracing iPhone-esque Characteristics

limiting their ability to deviate from the company’s protocols. While Android has traditionally provided a more adaptable and tailored experience — including the capability to entirely modify the fundamental operating system through custom ROM installations — it appears that the era of unmatched customization for Android users may be nearing its conclusion, albeit only on select devices.

Samsung seems to have eliminated the option to unlock the bootloader in the most recent beta iterations of One UI 8, which is Samsung’s interface for Android 16. The latest reports indicate that the code necessary for bootloader unlocking — which grants users the capability to install unofficial software on the device — has disappeared in the latest One UI 8 beta versions.

Although some believed this action might be just a temporary measure, an investigation into the code of the One UI 8 beta by a member on the XDA forums implies that it is likely a lasting alteration, effectively allowing Samsung to establish its own “walled garden” similar to Apple’s approach. And Samsung is not the only manufacturer taking this route. OnePlus has recently stated that smartphone users in China will need authorization to unlock their bootloaders, and that stipulation has been enforced for U.S. customers buying OnePlus devices from T-Mobile for some time.