Searching for Signs of Life on Mars

The video discusses the Mars missions by NASA and ESA, focusing on the Exomars Rover's mission to search for signs of life. The Mars Organic Molecule Analyzer (MoMA) is highlighted as a key instrument, using gas chromatography and laser desorption to analyze Martian samples. MoMA's advanced techniques, such as SWIFT and MSMS, enhance its ability to detect organic molecules, potentially indicating life. The video concludes with the significance of these missions in understanding life on Mars.

What is the primary mission of the Exomars Rover?

• To test new propulsion technologies

• To map the surface of Mars

• To uncover signs of past or present life

• To study the Martian atmosphere

What is the main function of the extending drill on the Exomars Rover?

• To navigate the Martian terrain

• To collect samples from the surface

• To retrieve samples from below the surface

• To communicate with Earth

How does the gas chromatograph mode of MoMA analyze Martian samples?

• By dissolving the samples in water

• By compressing the samples

• By heating the samples to vaporize them

• By freezing the samples

What is the purpose of the laser desorption mode in MoMA?

• To cool down the samples

• To vaporize and ionize large organic molecules

• To measure the temperature of Mars

• To capture images of the Martian surface

Which technique in MoMA helps in identifying large molecules by breaking them apart?

• Ultraviolet spectroscopy

• Gas chromatography

• Laser desorption

• Tandem mass spectrometry