Is there a possibility that Martian life exists? In a recent study published in the Meteorites and Planetary Science journal, University of Glasglow scientists revealed they have found a significant discovery — the presence of opal in a Martian meteorite, which, on Earth, can suggest the presence of microorganisms.

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In spite of the fact that past explorations have already revealed the presence of opal deposits, the latest finding is the first direct proof of a gem known as a "fire opal" on Mars. According to Science Recorder, the presence of opal, which is a gemstone often formed around hot springs where microorganisms thrive on Earth, is vital in detecting traces of ancient alien life on the Red Planet.

Discovered in the Egyptian town of Nakhla in 1911, the opal in a tiny 1.7 gram fragment of the "Nakhla" Martian meteorite was blasted away from the Martian terrain by a massive impact of unknown origin millions of years ago, University of Glasglow researchers said in a statement. These opal or "fire opals" are known for their vibrant flame-like colors of yellow, orange or red. The presence of iron traces in the opals are thought to be responsible for its bright hues.

University of Glasgow's School of Geographical and Earth Sciences professor and lead study author Martin Lee said the latest findings confirm evidence of opal from Mars mission and provide a target for future experiments, NBC News noted.

"If Martian microbes existed, it's possible they too may be preserved in opal deposits on the surface of Mars," Lee said in a news release. "Closer study of Martian opals by future missions to Mars could well help us learn more about the planet's past and whether it once held life."

Lee also added that the discovery of even a very small amount of fire opal is significant for at least two reasons, IBN Live reported.

The first reason is the findings definitively confirmed the previous data from NASA's imaging and exploration of the Martian surface, which appeared to show deposits of opal. The second reason is the fact that the researchers know that opals are often formed in and around hot springs here on Earth, where microbial life thrives.

So, if Martian microbes really did exist, opal could have trapped and preserved these microbes for millions of years. And it's possible that ancient traces of life may also be preserved in opal deposits on the surface of Mars.

TagsMars, Martian Life, Alien, outer space, Opal Stones, red planet