Mars' Mysterious Gullies Solved: Frozen Carbon Dioxide Revealed as Unlikely Culprit

Who or What Dug Mars' Mysterious Gullies? The Answer is Explosive In a groundbreaking study published on October 16, 2025, researchers at Utrecht University revealed that blocks of frozen carbon dioxide (CO2 ice) can dig mysterious gullies on Mars. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of the Red Planet's geology and potentially even its habitability. According to Dr. Lonneke Roelofs, lead researcher on the project, "It felt like I was watching the sandworms in the film Dune" as she observed the eerie, worm-like movements of the CO2 ice blocks in her laboratory experiments. These simulations recreated the Martian conditions that allow the ice blocks to slide and sublimate, or change directly from a solid to a gas, without going through the liquid phase. The study's findings suggest that these CO2 ice blocks can dig gullies as they move down slopes, throwing up levees in their wake. This process is not unlike the formation of dunes on Earth, but with a crucial difference: the Martian atmosphere is too thin to support liquid water, making it difficult for traditional erosion processes to occur. Background research has shown that Mars' surface features, including its gullies and unusual dune formations, have puzzled scientists for years. While some have speculated about the possibility of life on Mars, this study's focus is on understanding the geological processes at play. Dr. Roelofs emphasized the significance of her team's discovery: "This research helps us better understand how alien landscapes evolve, which is essential for future missions to Mars and beyond." The findings also highlight the importance of studying Martian geology in a laboratory setting, where conditions can be controlled and replicated. The study's implications extend beyond the scientific community. As we continue to explore the possibility of human settlement on Mars, understanding the planet's geological processes will be crucial for designing sustainable habitats and infrastructure. In related news, NASA's Perseverance rover has been exploring Jezero Crater since February 2021, providing valuable insights into Martian geology and searching for signs of past life. While this study does not directly address the question of life on Mars, it contributes to our growing understanding of the planet's complex geological history. As researchers continue to unravel the mysteries of Mars, Dr. Roelofs' team is already working on further experiments to refine their model and explore other aspects of Martian geology. With each new discovery, we move closer to answering one of humanity's most profound questions: are we alone in the universe? *Reporting by Sciencedaily.*