Did primitive life once exist on Mars? A new discovery has led scientists to reevaluate this question. A meteorite that was discovered two years ago in Antarctica and that is believed to be a chunk of Mars from 3.6 billion years ago has scientists scurrying for explanations. Hidden within the rock are what appear to be tiny organic single-celled organisms. Or are they? The debate is sure to last for several more years. More information, including pictures and interviews, can be found at the following site:
The Galileo spacecraft reached Jupiter on December 7, 1995 after trips past Earth, Venus and Gaspra. A probe was launched into Jupiter's atmosphere, and fly-bys of Ganymede and Europa have recently been completed. Galileo will continue to explore the Jovian system for the next couple of years. For more information on moon encounters, check out the following pages:
Are we alone in the universe? New discoveries have brought us one step closer to finding the answer. Recent technology improvements have opened a floodgate on extrasolar planet discoveries, with the count currently at eight and rising every week. Will it ultimately lead to the discovery of new life? Visit the following links to learn more about the newest planet discoveries:
Comet Hyakutake provided a grand opening act for the forthcoming Hale-Bopp show in 1997. Comet Hale-Bopp (named for its discoverers) will be binocular visible this summer, and is expected to outshine 1976's Comet West in the spring of 1997. Click here for a chart showing Hale-Bopp's position in the sky, or visit the following pages:
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is collecting signatures through January 1, 1997 to place on the Cassini mission to Saturn. If you would like your name flown (for free) to the outer solar system, more information can be found at :