As a researcher at Arizona State University, Dr. Delgado had always been fascinated by the potential for life on Mars. A paper she read in the prestigious journal Nature finally spurred her into action. The paper revealed a groundbreaking discovery: soil organic matter, essential for plant growth, could be synthesized using only microorganisms, without the need for decaying plant material.

This finding opened up a world of possibilities for Martian agriculture. Dr. Delgado realized that perchlorates, a common compound found in Martian soil, could be the key to jumpstarting this process. With the support of a grant from the National Science Foundation and co-funding from NASA, she embarked on a multiyear, multi-institution project to explore this revolutionary idea.

The Experiment Begins

One of the challenges faced by scientists studying Martian regolith is the lack of access to actual Martian soil samples. Instead, they must rely on simulated Martian dirt, such as Mars Global Simulant (MGS-1). Dr. Delgado’s lab at ASU is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including an anaerobic chamber, for studying microorganisms in a Mars-like environment.

Inside the lab, her team of researchers, led by doctoral students Alba Medina and Briana Paiz, are conducting experiments using microcosm bottles filled with nutrients, water, and MGS-1. These bottles mimic the conditions of Martian soil, allowing the team to observe how microorganisms interact with perchlorates and synthesize soil organic matter.

Through their innovative approach, Dr. Delgado and her team hope to revolutionize the way we think about agriculture on Mars. By harnessing the power of microbes, they are paving the way for sustainable and self-sufficient farming practices on the Red Planet.