New research has revealed that Martian dust's red hue comes from reactions that occurred in wet — not dry — conditions, and it could have implications for the possibility of life on the planet.

A study suggests Mars takes its red hue from a type of mineral that forms in cool water, which could reveal insights about whether Mars was ever able to support life.

The Red Planet, as it’s often called, has a distinct hue, and a new theory about this coloration could have implications for our understanding of Mars' evolution.