Photo: Mars Clay "Layer Cake" Adds to Proof of Watery Past

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Layers of clay minerals exposed in the Mawrth Vallis channel on Mars, seen above, most likely formed billions of years ago in the presence of liquid water, according to findings released in August 2008.

The ancient minerals add to evidence that early Mars was watery and could help scientists determine which areas, if any, were habitable.

Image courtesy NASA/JPL/University of Arizona

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