Now, after examining the geomorphological features and surface composition of Utopia Planitia sent back by Zhurong, researchers conclude that a nearshore zone once existed in this region, hinting at a rich watery past.

The discovery of a potential ancient ocean on Mars has profound implications for the ever-evolving search for extraterrestrial life. Liquid water is considered one of the essential prerequisites for life, and the existence of a vast ocean significantly increases the possibility that primitive life forms could have once inhabited the Red Planet.

The evidence found by the rover includes traces of beaches that may have been adjacent to water, as well as geological features indicative of an ancient coastline in the region.

China's Zhurong rover has discovered evidence suggesting Mars once had an ocean. The rover found geological formations similar to coastlines on Earth.

A Chinese rover has found new evidence to support the theory that Mars was once home to a vast ocean, including tracing some ancient coastline where water may once have lapped, a study said Thursday.

China’s Zhurong rover has found compelling evidence of a shoreline from a short-lived ancient ocean on Mars. This new evidence is lending credence to the theory that Mars was once a water world.

With the assistance of China's Zhurong rover, scientists have gathered fresh evidence that Mars was home to an ocean billions of years ago - a far cry from the dry and desolate world it is today.

Chinese scientists have hypothesised that a vast ocean might once have existed on the surface of Mars. This further proves that the Red Planet was not always a barren desert. Scientists say the ocean could have existed approximately 3.