Beda Hofmann: Research projects

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My currently active projects concentrate on the processes related to microbial activity in subsurface environments. The terrestrial subsurface has been recognized as a major habitat for microbial life. But what is the influence on the lithosphere hosting this life? How can the presence of former subsurface life be recognized in rocks and minerals? The application of this knowledge in exo/astrobiology naturally leads to the investigation of Mars meteorites, and to an interest of in-situ observation during robotic Mars missions. Besides the exo/astrobiology link, I have a long-standing interest in meteorites and impact processes.

Subsurface microbial fossils (SUMIFOS)

Since 1996, research has been concentrated in the field of microbe-mineral interactions and the development of mineralogical/geochemical biosignatures and their application in exo/astrobiology. This activity is being concentrated on former subsurface environments (project SUMIFOS: subsurface Microbial Fossils).

The major aim of this study is the morphological, mineralogical and geochemical analysis of filamentous fabrics from subsurface environments. Sites investigated include eastern Iceland, the Cady Mts, California, and Piz Alv, Switzerland. Many samples from our museum collection are also integrated in this research. By the end of 2001, roughly 150 SUMIFOS localities were identified. (Collaboration with Jack D. Farmer, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA.)

Prospection of new environments for the presence of microbial fossils continues, e. g. in hydrothermally altered impact melt rocks. Field work has been carried out in Scandinavia and in the Sudbury structure, Canada (the latter as Co-I of a NASA Exobiology-funded project, PI Kevin Pope).

Publication:
Hofmann, B.A., Farmer, J.D. (2000): Filamentous fabrics in low-temperature mineral assemblages: Are they fossil biomarkers? Implications for the search for a subsurface fossil record on the early Earth and Mars. Planetary and Space Science 48/11, 1077-1086.

Images:
Suspected microbial fabric in volcanic rock (dacite) >
Thin section photomicrograph of chalcedony vein showing filamentous fossil microbes(?) >
Photomicrograph showing mineralized filament (Fe-hydroxide) encrusted by clay minerals >

Meteorites (Oman; Switzerland; misc. localitites) by Beda Hofmann

Distribution, classification and weathering of meteorites in the Sultanate of Oman, description of rare meteorite types (Martian), description and history of Swiss meteorites.

Search for meteorites in Oman in collaboration with the Institute of Geology, Bern University, and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Oman. Two successful expeditions were conducted in 2001 and 2002, the description of numerous meteorites found is under way. The most notable find so far is that of Mars meteorite Sayh al Uhaymir 094. Besides the description of single meteorites, our project also is focused on a determination of the density of falls and the weathering rate in the Omani desert.

Swiss meteorites: Research is currently under way to fully describe the Twannberg meteorite discovered in 1984 (original mass 15.915 kg), and to determine whether a second mass found in 2000 (2kg mass) is paired.

Other meteorites: Activity with Omani meteorites has led to contacts with many people active in the field of meteorites and several samples have been brought to our attention that are meteorites. We are currently working on the classification of several such meteorites.

Images:
Impressions ( Image 1, Image 2, Image 3) from our meteorite search expeditions 2001 and 2002 in the Omani desert.
Sayh al Uhaymir 094, a Mars meteorite found during our first expedition in Oman >

Preparation for geological/astrobiological observations on the surface of Mars

Using cameras identical to those that will fly to Mars with the European mission MarsExpress and it's lander Beagle2 in 2003, test images of rock samples are made. These images will aid the preparation for the interpretation of images that will be returned from Mars in 2003/2004 (collaboration with CSEM Neuchâtel/ Beagle2 science team). During this project, attempts will be made to apply the experience gained with the project SUMIFOS. This work is carried out in collaboration with CSEM (Microcameras and Space Exploration) in Neuchâtel, the company who provides the cameras for Beagle2.

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