title: Sterilisation properties of the Mars surface and atmospheric environment.
abstract: The radiative and chemical conditions at the surface and in the lower Martian atmosphere are computed at various latitudes and seasons combining a 2D photochemical model and radiation simulations. In most situations, the solar UV B and C radiations reach the surface however, suspended dust and, in polar cases, ozone can constitute an effective UV shield. The daytime and night time concentrations of the sterilizing oxidants: OH, H2O2 and O3 are determined, as well as the concentration of the substances which could influence the metabolism of microorganisms. The possible habitats of a remaining Mar's life as well as the possibilities of contamination by resistant earth life forms will be described.
authors.affiliation: Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy, Belgian Users Support and Operation Centre, Brussels, Belgium. Didier.Moreau@oma.be
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Moreau
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Muller
mesh_terms: D001272:Atmosphere / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry*; D003264:Containment of Biohazards; D004391:Dust / Q000032:analysis; D018559:Exobiology; D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D005290:Ferric Compounds; D018535:Mars; D008956:Models, Chemical; D010777:Photochemistry; D011835:Radiation Protection; D013242:Sterilization; D013472:Sunlight; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays
chemical_list: D004391:Dust; D005290:Ferric Compounds; C000499:ferric oxide