Scientists at NASA, analyzing rock samples collected by the Curiosity rover, have discovered the largest organic molecules found on Mars to date. The carbon chains are composed of up to 12 atoms, which could be key evidence of life existing on the Red Planet.

While the presence of these molecules is not proof of ancient life on Mars, scientists say it shows we could detect chemical signatures of past life, if it ever existed.

Scientists from NASA, analysing rock samples collected by the Curiosity rover, have discovered the largest organic molecules found on Mars to date. The carbon chains are composed of up to 12 atoms, which could be key evidence of life existing on the Red Planet.