The Times of India

Atacama Mirrors Mars Conditions: DNA-free soil mimics Martian tests; NASA rehearses life hunt

Chiles Atacama Desert presents an eerie similarity to Martian landscapes, making it a key site for NASA's research. This hyperarid environment is known for its almost nonexistent rainfall, with certain places virtually dry for years. NASA uses this desert to simulate conditions for Mars missions and to test technology. Its soil composition astonishingly resembles that of Mars, often perplexing life detection tools.