Ep 5. Stonehenge on Mars

In the fifth episode of the sixth season of NASA's Unexplained Files, we explore the mysterious discovery of an object on the surface of Mars that some believe may be a replica of the ancient monument of Stonehenge. NASA's Curiosity rover captured images that showed a cluster of rocks arranged in a circular formation, much like the iconic stones at Stonehenge in England.

The episode begins with a brief historical overview of Stonehenge and its enigmatic purpose, which has puzzled archaeologists for centuries. The episode then shifts focus to the Curiosity rover, NASA's mobile laboratory, which has been exploring the surface of Mars since 2012.

While studying the images taken by the rover, scientists at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory noticed a strange formation that resembled Stonehenge. The cluster of rocks was arranged in a circular shape with smaller rocks placed around the perimeter. The rocks were all roughly the same size and had an unusual flat shape, which suggested that they may have been carved or shaped in some way.

Scientists were intrigued by the discovery and began studying the images in more detail. They created 3D models of the rocks and used computer simulations to try and understand how they could have been arranged in such a precise formation. They also looked for evidence of erosion or other environmental factors that could have caused the rocks to form naturally.

As they delved deeper into the mystery, scientists also considered the possibility that the rock formation could be evidence of past or present life on Mars. Previous missions to the red planet have discovered signs of water and other elements necessary for life, making it a prime location for astrobiological research.

The episode explores various theories about the purpose and origin of the Martian Stonehenge. Some scientists believe that it is a natural formation that has been eroded over time, while others think that it may have been created by an ancient Martian civilization.

One theory suggests that the rock formation could be a type of astronomical observatory, designed to track the movement of the planets and stars. This would be similar to the purpose of Stonehenge on Earth, which was believed to be a place of worship and an astronomical calendar. However, without physical evidence or more detailed images, it is impossible to confirm this theory.

Another hypothesis proposes that the rock formation could be the result of a geological process known as concretion. This occurs when minerals in sedimentary rocks slowly accumulate around a central point, creating a spherical shape. However, the size and complexity of the Martian Stonehenge suggest that this explanation is unlikely.

The episode also looks at the debate around the existence of extraterrestrial life and the possibility that the Martian Stonehenge could be evidence of an advanced civilization. Some scientists believe that the formation may have been created by a race of intelligent beings that once lived on Mars but were destroyed by a catastrophic event.

Overall, the episode offers a fascinating look at the ongoing search for answers about the mysteries of the universe and the potential for life on other planets. With each new discovery, scientists are getting closer to solving the puzzle of the Martian Stonehenge and unlocking the secrets of our solar system.