NASA’s rover extracted oxyzen from Martian atmosphere

NASA’s Perseverance rover has accomplished the ‘Mars Oxygen In-Situ Resource Utilisation Experiment (MOXIE)’ task successfully. For converting some of the Red Planet’s thin, carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere into oxygen, the six-wheeled robot had taken an experimental instrument abroad.

In a press statement, NASA said that the test took place on 20 April, the 60th Martian day, since the mission landed on February 18. NASA said that was a critical first step at converting carbon dioxide to oxygen on Mars.

The results from that technology demonstration have a huge significance as the goal of the scientists is to see one day humans on Mars. Oxygen isn’t just necessary to breathe. Rocket propellant also depends on oxygen. And, NASA further says that future explorers will depend on producing propellant on Mars to make the trip home.

The success of the mission has enabled scientists in isolating and storing oxygen on Mars to help power rockets that could lift astronauts off the planet’s surface in the future. Scientists say such devices also might one day provide breathable air for astronauts as well.

The Mars’ atmosphere has 96 per cent carbon dioxide. MOXIE works by separating oxygen atoms from carbon dioxide molecules. One carbon atom and two oxygen atoms make up a carbon dioxide molecule. In the process, a waste product, carbon monoxide, is emitted into the Martian atmosphere.

In addition, the conversion process requires high levels of heat to reach a temperature of approximately 800 Degree Celsius. NASA says MOXIE will extract oxygen at least nine more times over the course of a Martian year. A Martian year is nearly two years on Earth.