Workshop on Methane on Mars: Current Observations, Interpretation and Future Plans
When and Where
This joint ESA-ASI workshop will be held on 25 - 27 November 2009, at ESA/ESRIN in Frascati, Italy.
Purpose
Methane has been detected in the Martian atmosphere by ground-based telescopes and from orbit. This discovery indicates that the planet is either biologically or geologically active. The goal of the workshop is to review the available measurements, the potential reservoirs and release mechanisms of Methane and its circulation in the atmosphere, and to discuss all possible origins of this constituent.
We anticipate discussions on the following topics:
• Space observations of methane
• Ground-based observations of methane
• Martian atmosphere, surface and subsurface data relevant to the study of methane
• Origin, source, and loss of methane
• Atmospheric circulation and chemistry
• Mechanisms for storage and release
• Microbial life and metabolism in water ice
• Biological experiments under Martian conditions
• Future measurements of methane, its dissociation products, and related trace gases.
Workshop Format
The workshop will consist of invited and contributed talks as well as posters. Ample time will be allowed for discussions.
