Research & Publications

The science behind Earth-X

Earth-X is built on years of scientific research exploring terrestrial planetary analogs, extreme environments, planetary geology, and astrobiology. Our research investigates environments on Earth that can help us understand the geological, geochemical, and biological processes occurring on other planetary bodies. From volcanic and hydrothermal systems to polar, desert, and high-altitude environments, these natural laboratories provide valuable insights into the evolution and potential habitability of worlds such as Mars and the Moon. Through field expeditions, laboratory experiments, remote sensing, geomicrobiology, and comparative planetary studies, our researchers evaluate the similarities and differences between terrestrial environments and planetary settings. These studies provide the scientific foundation of Earth-X, allowing us to move from understanding planetary analogs toward using them as environments for testing scientific instruments, exploration strategies, habitat systems, and technologies for future planetary missions.

Selected Publications

Explore the peer-reviewed research developed by Earth-X researchers and collaborators on planetary analogs, extreme environments, astrobiology, and planetary exploration.

Atacama Desert

Prospecting the first Chilean Martian simulants from the Atacama Desert for ISRU and potential applications

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Gorgona Island

Gorgona Island (Colombia) as a terrestrial analog of Syrtis Major (Mars): Evidence from geochemical meta-analyses and compositional figures of merit

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Glaciers Deception Island

Debris-covered glaciers on Deception Island (Antarctica) as analogues for possible glaciers on the lower northwest flank of Hecates Tholus volcano, Mars

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Deception Island

The potential of Deception Island, Antarctica, as a multifunctional Martian analogue of astrobiological interest

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Half Moon Island

Phosphate solubilization by microorganisms in pyroclastic material from Half Moon Island in Antarctica: perspectives for astrobiology

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Nevado del Ruíz Volcano

Biogeochemical study of the periglacial slopes of the Nevado del Ruíz volcano (Colombia) as a terrestrial analog of Mars

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Deception Island Stations

Deception Island (Antarctica) as an analog environment for human space missions: A comparative analysis of Gabriel de Castilla base (Spain) and Decepción base (Argentine)

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Milos Island

Terrestrial Analogues for Solar System Studies: Milos Island, Greece



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