What scientific consensus adapted rapidly since the mid-2010s regarding the evidence confirmed by NASA concerning RSL?
The focus shifted from asking if water ever existed to investigating its volume, current location, and state
The scientific understanding of Martian water has evolved rapidly, especially following mid-2010s confirmations, such as identifying Recurring Slope Lineae as brine flows. The central scientific question progressed markedly. Initially, the goal was establishing if liquid water had ever been present. After concrete proof emerged, the focus refined dramatically. The contemporary scientific endeavor centers on quantitative assessments: determining the sheer volume of water that existed, identifying precisely where the remaining significant reserves are located (e.g., deep subsurface), and confirming whether that water is currently present in a liquid state, even if transiently.
