A critical new space discovery bodes well for humans, who are looking to pack up and move to Mars.

NASA images reveal sheets of ice below the surface of the red planet.

Astrophysicist at the Australian National University Dr Brad Tucker said the discovery's critical.

He told Nadine Higgins ice could be melted down and used to make rocket fuel or simply to drink.

"Eight giant glaciers were found which is a sign that there is probably more out there and more we could use if and when humans are on Mars."

He said a natural water supply is more cost effective than bringing it from Earth.

"To bring water into space from Earth it is something like $50,000 a kilogram to get it off the Earth so if you can just use stuff that is already there it completely changes the game."

LISTEN TO BRAD TUCKER TALK WITH NADINE HIGGINS ABOVE