"The findings not only provide further evidence to support the theory of a Martian ocean but also present, for the first time, a discussion on its probable evolutionary scenario."

Now, after examining the geomorphological features and surface composition of Utopia Planitia sent back by Zhurong, researchers conclude that a nearshore zone once existed in this region, hinting at a rich watery past.

The discovery of a potential ancient ocean on Mars has profound implications for the ever-evolving search for extraterrestrial life. Liquid water is considered one of the essential prerequisites for life, and the existence of a vast ocean significantly increases the possibility that primitive life forms could have once inhabited the Red Planet.

The evidence found by the rover includes traces of beaches that may have been adjacent to water, as well as geological features indicative of an ancient coastline in the region.

China’s Zhurong rover has found compelling evidence of a shoreline from a short-lived ancient ocean on Mars. This new evidence is lending credence to the theory that Mars was once a water world.

China 's Zhurong rover has unearthed new evidence supporting the theory that Mars once housed a vast ocean, a study published in Scientific Reports has revealed. The rover, which landed in 2021 on a plain in the Utopia region of the Martian northern hemisphere,

Chinese scientists have hypothesised that a vast ocean might once have existed on the surface of Mars. This further proves that the Red Planet was not always a barren desert. Scientists say the ocean could have existed approximately 3.