Analogs are used in science investigations to better understand systems we can’t access ourselves. In this lesson, students explore the Dry Valleys of Antarctica to better understand microbial communities on early Earth and what might have been possible on ancient Mars. Students will examine photographs, written descriptions, and artistic renderings of early Earth, the Dry Valley lakes, and
This article summarizes the research of cyanobacterial mats in Lake Joyce during the 2014 field season. It describes the importance of the mats to better understand Earth history and understanding of other planetary systems. Additionally, it describes the sediment trap experiement that will conclude in the next field season.
On 6 October 2014, Capital Public Radio in Sacramento, CA interviewed Dawn Sumner, Tyler Mackey and Lucy Coleman on connections between the research in Lake Joyce, Antarctica, and work by the Mars Curiosity rover. To listen to the interview, click here.
Share in the excitement of unearthing a biface and other archaeological treasures, as Alaskan researchers explain how they discover and document early human settlement sites across arctic Alaska. This video is part of a larger story on the Frontier Scientists website (http://frontierscientists.com/), the University of Alaska Fairbanks' portal for sharing the Arctic's newest discoveries.
Travel back in time as scientists and PolarTREC teacher Karl Horeis take you out to their dig sites to uncover hidden clues about early human settlement in arctic Alaska. This video is part of a larger story on the Frontier Scientists website (http://frontierscientists.com/), the University of Alaska Fairbanks' portal for sharing the Arctic's newest discoveries.