Scottish island gives scientists ‘head start’ for examining rocks from Mars

Scientists have been analysing rocks from the Scottish island of Rum as part of their preparations for examining Martian samples (Laurie Campbell/NatureScot/PA)

Scientists say studying ancient rocks from the Scottish island of Rum will give them a “good head start” as they prepare to examine Martian samples.

As part of their preparations, rocks from around the world that are similar to those from the red planet are being collected – with Rum the only UK site that samples have been taken from.