From the December 2005 issue of Astronomy & Geophysics:

New strategies to detect life on Mars

Jeffrey L Bada, et al.

Astronomy & Geophysics 46 (6), 6.26-6.27 (2005)

doi: 10.1111/j.1468-4004.2005.46626.x

If we are to find unequivocal evidence for life on Mars, we will need new ways to search for it. Jeff L Bada and the MOD team describe the innovative strategy developed for the ExoMars mission.

Abstract

The quest to determine whether life existed, or still exists, on Mars continues with several missions planned for the red planet by both the European Space Agency (ESA) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in the next few decades. One instrument designed for these missions is the Mars Organic Detector (MOD), which uses a new approach to achieve exceptionally high detection sensitivities and analysis capabilities for key bio-organic compounds. MOD is scheduled to fly in the ESA ExoMars mission early next decade and will attempt to answer the question of whether we are alone in the solar system. Here the MOD team explains why we have reason to be optimistic about uncovering the organic secrets of Mars.

http://www.blackwell-synergy.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1468-4004.2005.46626.x