Giant mantle plume reveals Mars is more active than previously thought

"Microbes on Earth flourish in environments like this, and that could be true on Mars, as well," Andrews-Hanna said, adding that the discovery goes beyond explaining the enigmatic seismic activity and resurgence in volcanic activity. "Knowing that there is an active giant mantle plume underneath the Martian surface raises important questions regarding how the planet has evolved over time. "We're convinced that the future has more surprises in store."

"Orbital observations unveil the presence of an enormous mantle plume pushing the surface of Mars upward and driving intense volcanic and seismic activity. The discovery reveals that Mars, like Earth and Venus, possesses an active interior, which challenges current views on the evolution of the red planet."