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THE LOOK OF LIFE: How computers might be used to visually analyze Martian rock samples for signs of fossilized life.

This goes way beyond facial recognition software, and in a way illustrates (without us even going there yet, at that) the potential benefits that the exploration of Mars could provide in terms of technological advancement. It’s a small step from using such technology to look for life on Mars (or Titan, etc.), and using it on Earth as a rapid and inexpensive diagnostic tool for fighting infectious diseases, food-borne illnesses, and other microbe-related problems.