NASA Mars mission: Scientists detect atomic oxygen in Mars' atmosphere

The video discusses the detection of atomic oxygen on Mars by a specialized jetliner flying at high altitudes. Using a spectrometer, the plane measured atomic oxygen in Mars's mesosphere, which differs from the oxygen in Earth's atmosphere. This discovery supports the theory that Mars once had a thicker atmosphere capable of sustaining water and possibly life. Over time, solar winds stripped away Mars's atmosphere, leaving it cold and barren.

What evidence do scientists have that Mars was once warm and wet?

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What caused Mars to become cold and barren over time?

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