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Viking 2.0 Mars Life Detection Workshop

When

3 – 7 p.m., March 20, 2026

Where

Step into the role of a NASA scientist analyzing data from a simulated Mars life detection mission. Your team will use data from experiments searching for signs of life hidden in subsurface ice – but the data won't cooperate! Expect instrument failures, ambiguous signals, and the constant question: Is this biology, chemistry, or contamination?

This workshop will take place March 19th and March 20th, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. each day (We understand you might need to step out for class etc., occasionally, but we recommend staying for the full sessions if possible.)

Over two half-day sessions, you'll analyze, debate competing interpretations, and present to a mock NASA review panel. Your recommendation will address the question: Should we send humans to Mars and risk contaminating the planet?

What you'll learn: How to build evidence-based arguments from messy data and embrace scientific uncertainty.
Perfect for: STEM undergrad and early graduate students. Bring your curiosity and critical thinking!

Spots are limited, sign up here today!: https://forms.gle/LpynuTJQZVgt748i7

Send questions to Nathan Hadland: nkhadland@arizona.edu