Summary:
- Researchers have found that the dark streaks on the surface of Mars, previously thought to be caused by flowing water, may actually be caused by dry, granular flows instead.
- The study suggests that the dark streaks, known as recurring slope lineae (RSL), are likely formed by the movement of dry sand and dust, rather than by the presence of liquid water.
- This new understanding of the nature of these features on Mars has important implications for the search for potential signs of life on the planet, as the presence of liquid water was previously considered a key indicator.