Stephen King and Ian Morris of HSBC point out that growth in consumer spending, total investment and exports in this cycle has been correspondingly feeble.

Dr Morris explained that the mineral probably came from carbonate-rich water, which interacted with the rock. This could also point to early Mars being warmer than previously thought.

"I think these things are cyclical," Morris says. "At some point in the future, I'm sure funds will get raised faster with fewer questions asked."