Aug 8th, 2008 · NASA's Phoenix Mars Lander has detected a salt found on Earth on the surface of Mars. The salt, called perchlorate, is used in fireworks and rocket fuel. The news follows the recent confirmation of the presence of water on the Red Planet.
Jan 11th, 2005 · A report from scientists who advise the government concludes that the levels of the toxic chemical perchlorate currently found in drinking water do not pose a major threat to the nation's health. But an EPA report from 2002 -- and some environmental groups -- contradict that finding. NPR's Jon Hamilton reports.
Jan 10th, 2005 · A new report from the National Research Council says it is safe to ingest perchlorate -- a chemical linked to decreased thyroid function and found in drinking water in more than 35 states -- at doses 20 times greater than the "reference dose" currently proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency. Hear NPR's Jon Hamilton.