Complex Carbon on Mars Edges NASA Closer to Ancient Life

Curiosity found 21 carbon molecules in one Mars rock, 7 never before seen on the planet.

One is a nitrogen-bearing carbon ring, the same chemical family that builds RNA and DNA.

Perseverance's 'leopard-spotted' Cheyava Falls rock holds the strongest potential biosignature yet.

None of it proves life — geology can make these molecules too.

A firm yes or no likely waits for Martian samples to be flown back to Earth.