Click on image for publication quality image. 4.5 X 5 in. Image at 300dpi, 134K.

Caption:

Upper figure: Modern magnetotactic bacteria, one showing a chain of magnetite crystals, as seen in the backscattered scanning electron microscope.

Lower figure: Magnetite crystals and chains of magnetite crystals in the Martian meteorite ALH84001 in the backscattered scanning electron microscope. One conspicuous chain indicated by arrows. The diameter of a single crystal ia approximately one-millionth of an inch.

Related Links

° 26 February 2001: New Evidence Strengthens Claims of Ancient Life on Mars - Study of Martian Meteorite Reveals Magentic Fossils, NASA JSC

° 26 February 2001: NASA JSC Background Information on PNAS ALH84001 Magenetite Paper, NASA JSC

° 26 February 2001: Case For Life on Mars Withstands Criticism, Gains Scientific Support, NASA JSC

° 26 February 2001: Scientists Finds Evidence of Ancient Microbial Life on Mars, NASA ARC

° 26 February 2001: NSF official describes hunt for antarctic meteorites related to new meteorite evidence of primitive life on Mars, NSF