Water is the liquid that cut the fresh gullies seen on Mars in 2000, suggests a new analysis – this despite claims that other liquids may be responsible. The fleeting presence of water flowing on the Red Planet once again raises hopes that primitive life may exist just below the surface. Looking at ancient canyons and shorelines, most scientists agree that Mars was wetter and warmer billions of years ago. But the fresh gullies would indicate that running water, and perhaps life, may be a feature of Mars today.