How do scientists search for signs of life on Mars without bringing samples back?

Mars missions search for habitability first because life as we know it needs liquid water, energy, and chemical ingredients. Rovers such as Curiosity and Perseverance carry tools that analyze mineralogy, organics, and textures in rocks that may preserve ancient environments. Perseverance is exploring Jezero Crater, an ancient lake and river-delta site, because such places are good at trapping biosignatures. While no mission has confirmed life on Mars, the evidence collected so far helps scientists identify where life could have existed in the past.