Signs of stream found on Mars

Signs that a stream once flowed across the surface of Mars have been found near the site where Nasa’s newest rover landed, scientists said today.

Curiosity touched down in a crater near the Martian equator last month.

The red planet is dusty and dry but scientists think it was once warmer and wetter.

Evidence of an ancient stream came from analysing the size and shapes of pebbles and gravel near Gale Crater.

Mission scientists said today that it appeared the water was fast-moving and deep.

Images from space have provided hints of a watery past at Curiosity’s landing site and the latest discovery on the ground confirms that.

Curiosity is heading towards a spot where three types of terrain meet. Its ultimate destination is a mountain rising from the centre of the crater.