Biogeosciences Discuss., 4, 455–492, 2007 Biogeosciences www.biogeosciences-discuss.net/4/455/2007/ Discussions BGD © Author(s) 2007. This work is licensed 4, 455–492, 2007 under a Creative Commons License. Biogeosciences Discussions is the access reviewed discussion forum of Biogeosciences Martian radiation L. R. Dartnell et al Title Page Martian sub-surface ionising radiation: Abstract Introduction ∗ biosignatures and geology Conclusions References Tables Figures L. R. Dartnell1, L. Desorgher2, J. M. Ward3, and A. J. Coates4 1CoMPLEX (Centre for Mathematics & Physics in the Life Sciences and Experimental J I Biology), University College London, UK J I 2Physikalisches Institut, University of Bern, Switzerland 3Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University College London, UK Back Close 4Mullard Space Science Laboratory, University College London, UK Full Screen / Esc Received: 8 January 2007 – Accepted: 7 February 2007 – Published: 9 February 2007 Correspondence to: L. R. Dartnell (
[email protected]) Printer-friendly Version Interactive Discussion EGU ∗Invited contribution by L. R. Dartnell, one of the Union Young Scientist Award winners 2006. 455 Abstract BGD The surface of Mars, unshielded by thick atmosphere or global magnetic field, is ex- posed to high levels of cosmic radiation. This ionizing radiation field is deleterious to 4, 455–492, 2007 the survival of dormant cells or spores and the persistence of molecular biomarkers in 5 the subsurface, and so its characterisation is of prime astrobiological interest. Previous Martian radiation research has attempted to address the question of biomarker persistence by inappro- priately using dose profiles weighted specifically for cellular survival. Here, we present L. R. Dartnell et al modelling results of the unmodified physically absorbed radiation dose as a function of depth through the Martian subsurface.