Which evidence type requires Earth-based lab analysis for High confirmation level?

Answer

Isotopic Ratios

The tiered system of evidence confidence places Isotopic Ratios at the highest level of confirmation because determining these specific ratios of light and heavy elements requires instrumentation far beyond what can be miniaturized and sent aboard a rover. Terrestrial life exhibits a strong, measurable preference for lighter isotopes (like Carbon-12) during metabolism. Detecting a statistically significant analogous ratio on Mars would serve as strong evidence for past biological processing. Because current onboard instruments lack the necessary sensitivity for this precise measurement, the samples containing these potential ratios must be brought back to sophisticated laboratories on Earth for definitive verification.

Which evidence type requires Earth-based lab analysis for High confirmation level?

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