Have olivine, will gas: Serpentinization and the abiogenic production of methane on Mars

Spatial variability of methane (CH₄) on Mars suggests the presence of localized subsurface sources. Here, we show that olivine hydration in the Martian regolith and crust may be a major CH₄ source, which contributed significantly to the warming of early Mars. Methane production is kinetically and thermodynamically favored during low-T aqueous alteration of olivine-rich rocks. Sustained release of CH₄ on present-day Mars may come through the breakdown of ancient CH₄ hydrates and from springs driven by geothermal heat.