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McKeeby BE, Ramsey MS, Tai Udovicic CJ, Haberle C, Edwards CS. Quantifying Sub-Meter Surface Heterogeneity on Mars Using Off-Axis Thermal Emission Imaging System (THEMIS) Data. EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE (HOBOKEN, N.J.) 2022; 9:e2022EA002430. [PMID: 36588669 PMCID: PMC9788145 DOI: 10.1029/2022ea002430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Surface heterogeneities below the spatial resolution of thermal infrared (TIR) instruments result in anisothermality and can produce emissivity spectra with negative slopes toward longer wavelengths. Sloped spectra arise from an incorrect assumption of either a uniform surface temperature or a maximum emissivity during the temperature-emissivity separation of radiance data. Surface roughness and lateral mixing of different sub-pixel surface units result in distinct spectral slopes with magnitudes proportional to the degree of temperature mixing. Routine Off-nadir Targeted Observations (ROTO) of the Thermal Emission Imaging Spectrometer (THEMIS) are used here for the first time to investigate anisothermality below the spatial resolution of THEMIS. The southern flank of Apollinaris Mons and regions within the Medusae Fossae Formation are studied using THEMIS ROTO data acquired just after local sunset. We observe a range of sloped TIR emission spectra dependent on the magnitude of temperature differences within a THEMIS pixel. Spectral slopes and wavelength-dependent brightness temperature differences are forward-modeled for a series of two-component surfaces of varying thermal inertia values. Our results imply that differing relative proportions of rocky and unconsolidated surface units are observed at each ROTO viewing geometry and suggest a local rock abundance six times greater than published results that rely on nadir data. High-resolution visible images of these regions indicate a mixture of surface units from boulders to dunes, providing credence to the model.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. E. McKeeby
- Department of Geology and Environmental ScienceUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - M. S. Ramsey
- Department of Geology and Environmental ScienceUniversity of PittsburghPittsburghPAUSA
| | - C. J. Tai Udovicic
- Department of Astronomy and Planetary ScienceNorthern Arizona UniversityFlagstaffAZUSA
| | - C. Haberle
- Department of Astronomy and Planetary ScienceNorthern Arizona UniversityFlagstaffAZUSA
| | - C. S. Edwards
- Department of Astronomy and Planetary ScienceNorthern Arizona UniversityFlagstaffAZUSA
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Recognition of Sedimentary Rock Occurrences in Satellite and Aerial Images of Other Worlds—Insights from Mars. REMOTE SENSING 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/rs13214296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Sedimentary rocks provide records of past surface and subsurface processes and environments. The first step in the study of the sedimentary rock record of another world is to learn to recognize their occurrences in images from instruments aboard orbiting, flyby, or aerial platforms. For two decades, Mars has been known to have sedimentary rocks; however, planet-wide identification is incomplete. Global coverage at 0.25–6 m/pixel, and observations from the Curiosity rover in Gale crater, expand the ability to recognize Martian sedimentary rocks. No longer limited to cases that are light-toned, lightly cratered, and stratified—or mimic original depositional setting (e.g., lithified deltas)—Martian sedimentary rocks include dark-toned examples, as well as rocks that are erosion-resistant enough to retain small craters as well as do lava flows. Breakdown of conglomerates, breccias, and even some mudstones, can produce a pebbly regolith that imparts a “smooth” appearance in satellite and aerial images. Context is important; sedimentary rocks remain challenging to distinguish from primary igneous rocks in some cases. Detection of ultramafic, mafic, or andesitic compositions do not dictate that a rock is igneous, and clast genesis should be considered separately from the depositional record. Mars likely has much more sedimentary rock than previously recognized.
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Ojha L, Lewis K, Karunatillake S, Schmidt M. The Medusae Fossae Formation as the single largest source of dust on Mars. Nat Commun 2018; 9:2867. [PMID: 30030425 PMCID: PMC6054634 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-05291-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Transport of fine-grained dust is one of the most widespread sedimentary processes occurring on Mars today. In the present climate, eolian abrasion and deflation of rocks are likely the most pervasive and active dust-forming mechanism. Martian dust is globally enriched in S and Cl and has a distinct mean S:Cl ratio. Here we identify a potential source region for Martian dust based on analysis of elemental abundance data. We show that a large sedimentary unit called the Medusae Fossae Formation (MFF) has the highest abundance of S and Cl, and provides the best chemical match to surface measurements of Martian dust. Based on volume estimates of the eroded materials from the MFF, along with the enrichment of elemental S and Cl, and overall geochemical similarity, we propose that long-term deflation of the MFF has significantly contributed to the global Martian dust reservoir.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lujendra Ojha
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.
| | - Kevin Lewis
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Suniti Karunatillake
- Department of Geology and Geophysics, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - Mariek Schmidt
- Department of Earth Sciences, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON, L2S 3A1, Canada
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Wall KT, Rowe MC, Ellis BS, Schmidt ME, Eccles JD. Determining volcanic eruption styles on Earth and Mars from crystallinity measurements. Nat Commun 2014; 5:5090. [PMID: 25277152 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms6090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Both Earth and Mars possess different styles of explosive basaltic volcanism. Distinguishing phreatomagmatic eruptions, driven by magma-water interaction, from 'magmatic' explosive eruptions (that is, strombolian and plinian eruptions) is important for determining the presence of near-surface water or ice at the time of volcanism. Here we show that eruption styles can be broadly identified by relative variations in groundmass or bulk crystallinity determined by X-ray diffraction. Terrestrial analogue results indicate that rapidly quenched phreatomagmatic ejecta display lower groundmass crystallinity (<35%) than slower cooling ejecta from strombolian or plinian eruptions (>40%). Numerical modelling suggests Martian plinian eruptive plumes moderate cooling, allowing 20-30% syn-eruptive crystallization, and thus reduce the distinction between eruption styles on Mars. Analysis of Mars Curiosity rover CheMin X-ray diffraction results from Gale crater indicate that the crystallinity of Martian sediment (52-54%) is similar to pyroclastic rocks from Gusev crater, Mars, and consistent with widespread distribution of basaltic strombolian or plinian volcanic ejecta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kellie T Wall
- School of the Environment, Washington State University, Webster Physical Science Building, Room 1228, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA
| | - Michael C Rowe
- School of Environment, University of Auckland, Commerce A Building, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Ben S Ellis
- Institute of Geochemistry and Petrology, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mariek E Schmidt
- Department of Earth Sciences, Brock University, 500 Glenridge Avenue, Saint Catharines, Ontario, Canada L2S 3A1
| | - Jennifer D Eccles
- School of Environment, University of Auckland, Commerce A Building, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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Platz T, Byrne PK, Massironi M, Hiesinger H. Volcanism and tectonism across the inner solar system: an overview. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1144/sp401.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
AbstractVolcanism and tectonism are the dominant endogenic means by which planetary surfaces change. This book, in general, and this overview, in particular, aim to encompass the broad range in character of volcanism, tectonism, faulting and associated interactions observed on planetary bodies across the inner solar system – a region that includes Mercury, Venus, Earth, the Moon, Mars and asteroids. The diversity and breadth of landforms produced by volcanic and tectonic processes are enormous, and vary across the inventory of inner solar system bodies. As a result, the selection of prevailing landforms and their underlying formational processes that are described and highlighted in this review are but a primer to the expansive field of planetary volcanism and tectonism. In addition to this extended introductory contribution, this Special Publication features 21 dedicated research articles about volcanic and tectonic processes manifest across the inner solar system. Those articles are summarized at the end of this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- T. Platz
- Planetary Science Institute, 1700 East Fort Lowell Road, Tucson, AZ 85719-2395, USA
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Geological Sciences, Planetary Sciences & Remote Sensing, Malteserstrasse 74-100, 12249 Berlin, Germany
| | - P. K. Byrne
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, Universities Space Research Association, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
- Department of Terrestrial Magnetism, Carnegie Institution of Washington, 5241 Broad Branch Road NW, Washington, DC 20015-1305, USA
| | - M. Massironi
- Dipartimento di Geoscienze, Universita' degli Studi di Padova, via G. Gradenigo 6, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - H. Hiesinger
- Institut für Planetologie, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, Wilhelm-Klemm-Strasse 10, 48149 Münster, Germany
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Affiliation(s)
- James R. Zimbelman
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, MRC 315, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20013–7012, USA
| | - Stephen P. Scheidt
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, MRC 315, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20013–7012, USA
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Burr DM, Williams RME, Wendell KD, Chojnacki M, Emery JP. Inverted fluvial features in the Aeolis/Zephyria Plana region, Mars: Formation mechanism and initial paleodischarge estimates. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1029/2009je003496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Kadish SJ, Barlow NG, Head JW. Latitude dependence of Martian pedestal craters: Evidence for a sublimation-driven formation mechanism. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1029/2008je003318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seth J. Kadish
- Department of Geological Sciences; Brown University; Providence Rhode Island USA
| | - Nadine G. Barlow
- Department of Physics and Astronomy; Northern Arizona University; Flagstaff Arizona USA
| | - James W. Head
- Department of Geological Sciences; Brown University; Providence Rhode Island USA
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10
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Lanz JK, Saric MB. Cone fields in SW Elysium Planitia: Hydrothermal venting on Mars? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1029/2008je003209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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11
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Mandt KE, de Silva SL, Zimbelman JR, Crown DA. Origin of the Medusae Fossae Formation, Mars: Insights from a synoptic approach. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1029/2008je003076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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12
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Boynton WV, Taylor GJ, Evans LG, Reedy RC, Starr R, Janes DM, Kerry KE, Drake DM, Kim KJ, Williams RMS, Crombie MK, Dohm JM, Baker V, Metzger AE, Karunatillake S, Keller JM, Newsom HE, Arnold JR, Brückner J, Englert PAJ, Gasnault O, Sprague AL, Mitrofanov I, Squyres SW, Trombka JI, d'Uston L, Wänke H, Hamara DK. Concentration of H, Si, Cl, K, Fe, and Th in the low- and mid-latitude regions of Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1029/2007je002887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter H. Schultz
- The author is in the Department of Geological Sciences, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912-1846, USA
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14
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Watters TR, Campbell B, Carter L, Leuschen CJ, Plaut JJ, Picardi G, Orosei R, Safaeinili A, Clifford SM, Farrell WM, Ivanov AB, Phillips RJ, Stofan ER. Radar Sounding of the Medusae Fossae Formation Mars: Equatorial Ice or Dry, Low-Density Deposits? Science 2007; 318:1125-8. [DOI: 10.1126/science.1148112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R. Watters
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Bruce Campbell
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Lynn Carter
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Carl J. Leuschen
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Jeffrey J. Plaut
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Giovanni Picardi
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Roberto Orosei
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Ali Safaeinili
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Stephen M. Clifford
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - William M. Farrell
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Anton B. Ivanov
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Roger J. Phillips
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
| | - Ellen R. Stofan
- Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC 20560, USA
- Center for Remote Sensing of Ice Sheets, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA 91109, USA
- Infocom Department, “La Sapienza” University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Lunar and Planetary Institute, 3600 Bay Area Boulevard, Houston, TX 77058, USA
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15
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Hiesinger H, Head JW, Neukum G. Young lava flows on the eastern flank of Ascraeus Mons: Rheological properties derived from High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) images and Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) data. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1029/2006je002717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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16
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Malin MC, Bell JF, Cantor BA, Caplinger MA, Calvin WM, Clancy RT, Edgett KS, Edwards L, Haberle RM, James PB, Lee SW, Ravine MA, Thomas PC, Wolff MJ. Context Camera Investigation on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1029/2006je002808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 805] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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17
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Keller JM, Boynton WV, Karunatillake S, Baker VR, Dohm JM, Evans LG, Finch MJ, Hahn BC, Hamara DK, Janes DM, Kerry KE, Newsom HE, Reedy RC, Sprague AL, Squyres SW, Starr RD, Taylor GJ, Williams RMS. Equatorial and midlatitude distribution of chlorine measured by Mars Odyssey GRS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1029/2006je002679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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18
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Taylor GJ, Stopar JD, Boynton WV, Karunatillake S, Keller JM, Brückner J, Wänke H, Dreibus G, Kerry KE, Reedy RC, Evans LG, Starr RD, Martel LMV, Squyres SW, Gasnault O, Maurice S, d'Uston C, Englert P, Dohm JM, Baker VR, Hamara D, Janes D, Sprague AL, Kim KJ, Drake DM, McLennan SM, Hahn BC. Variations in K/Th on Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1029/2006je002676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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20
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McCollom TM, Hynek BM. A volcanic environment for bedrock diagenesis at Meridiani Planum on Mars. Nature 2005; 438:1129-31. [PMID: 16372002 DOI: 10.1038/nature04390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2005] [Accepted: 10/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Exposed bedrocks at Meridiani Planum on Mars display chemical and mineralogical evidence suggesting interaction with liquid water. On the basis of morphological observations as well as high abundances of haematite and sulphate minerals, the rocks have been interpreted as sediments that were deposited in a shallow body of briny water with subsequent evaporation leaving behind the sulphate minerals. The iron-sulphur mineralization at Meridiani has also been inferred to be analogous to that produced during oxidative weathering of metal sulphide minerals, such as occurs at acid mine drainage sites. Neither of these interpretations, however, is consistent with the chemical composition of the rocks. Here we propose an alternative model for diagenesis of Meridiani bedrock that involves deposition of volcanic ash followed by reaction with condensed sulphur dioxide- and water-bearing vapours emitted from fumaroles. This scenario does not require prolonged interaction with a standing body of surface water and may have occurred at high temperatures. Consequently, the model invokes an environment considerably less favourable for biological activity on Mars than previously proposed interpretations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M McCollom
- Center for Astrobiology, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80309, USA.
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21
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Martínez-Alonso S. A volcanic interpretation of Gusev Crater surface materials from thermophysical, spectral, and morphological evidence. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1029/2004je002327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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22
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Greeley R, Kuzmin RO, Rafkin SCR, Michaels TI, Haberle R. Wind-related features in Gusev crater, Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1029/2002je002006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Greeley
- Department of Geological Sciences; Arizona State University; Tempe Arizona USA
| | | | - Scot C. R. Rafkin
- Department of Meteorology; San Jose State University; San Jose California USA
| | - Timothy I. Michaels
- Department of Meteorology; San Jose State University; San Jose California USA
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23
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Hynek BM. Explosive volcanism in the Tharsis region: Global evidence in the Martian geologic record. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1029/2003je002062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Tanaka KL. Resurfacing history of the northern plains of Mars based on geologic mapping of Mars Global Surveyor data. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1029/2002je001908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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25
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Bradley BA. Medusae Fossae Formation: New perspectives from Mars Global Surveyor. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1029/2001je001537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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26
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Malin MC, Edgett KS. Mars Global Surveyor Mars Orbiter Camera: Interplanetary cruise through primary mission. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2001. [DOI: 10.1029/2000je001455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 671] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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27
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Hort M, Weitz CM. Theoretical modeling of eruption plumes on Mars under current and past climates. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2001. [DOI: 10.1029/2000je001293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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28
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Hood LL, Zakharian A. Mapping and modeling of magnetic anomalies in the northern polar region of Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2001. [DOI: 10.1029/2000je001304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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29
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Dohm JM, Anderson RC, Baker VR, Ferris JC, Rudd LP, Hare TM, Rice JW, Casavant RR, Strom RG, Zimbelman JR, Scott DH. Latent outflow activity for western Tharsis, Mars: Significant flood record exposed. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2001. [DOI: 10.1029/2000je001352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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30
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31
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Keszthelyi L, McEwen AS, Thordarson T. Terrestrial analogs and thermal models for Martian flood lavas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2000. [DOI: 10.1029/1999je001191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Sakimoto SEH, Frey HV, Garvin JB, Roark JH. Topography, roughness, layering, and slope properties of the Medusae Fossae Formation from Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) and Mars Orbiter Camera (MOC) data. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1999. [DOI: 10.1029/1999je001044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Harmon JK, Arvidson RE, Guinness EA, Campbell BA, Slade MA. Mars mapping with delay-Doppler radar. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1999. [DOI: 10.1029/1998je900042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Malin MC, Carr MH, Danielson GE, Davies ME, Hartmann WK, Ingersoll AP, James PB, Masursky H, McEwen AS, Soderblom LA, Thomas P, Veverka J, Caplinger MA, Ravine MA, Soulanille TA, Warren JL. Early views of the martian surface from the Mars Orbiter Camera of Mars Global Surveyor. Science 1998; 279:1681-5. [PMID: 9497280 DOI: 10.1126/science.279.5357.1681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
High-resolution images of the martian surface at scales of a few meters show ubiquitous erosional and depositional eolian landforms. Dunes, sandsheets, and drifts are prevalent and exhibit a range of morphology, composition (inferred from albedo), and age (as seen in occurrences of different dune orientations at the same location). Steep walls of topographic depressions such as canyons, valleys, and impact craters show the martian crust to be stratified at scales of a few tens of meters. The south polar layered terrain and superposed permanent ice cap display diverse surface textures that may reflect the complex interplay of volatile and non-volatile components. Low resolution regional views of the planet provide synoptic observations of polar cap retreat, condensate clouds, and the lifecycle of local and regional dust storms.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Malin
- Malin Space Science Systems, Post Office Box 910148, San Diego, CA 92191-0148, USA
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Edgett KS, Butler BJ, Zimbelman JR, Hamilton VE. Geologic context of the Mars radar “Stealth” region in southwestern Tharsis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1997. [DOI: 10.1029/97je01685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Tanaka KL, Leonard GJ. Geology and landscape evolution of the Hellas region of Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1995. [DOI: 10.1029/94je02804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Cave JA. Ice in the northern lowlands and southern highlands of Mars and its enrichment beneath the Elysium lavas. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1993. [DOI: 10.1029/93je00381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Bouška V, Bell JF. Assumptions about the presence of natural glasses on Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1993. [DOI: 10.1029/93je01959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Wilson L, Heslop SE. Clast sizes in terrestrial and Martian ignimbrite lag deposits. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1990. [DOI: 10.1029/jb095ib11p17309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Scambos TA, Jakosky BM. An outgassing release factor for nonradiogenic volatiles on Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1990. [DOI: 10.1029/jb095ib09p14779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Forsythe RD, Zimbelman JR. Is the Gordii Dorsum escarpment on Mars an exhumed transcurrent fault? Nature 1988. [DOI: 10.1038/336143a0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Greeley R. Release of Juvenile Water on Mars: Estimated Amounts and Timing Associated with Volcanism. Science 1987; 236:1653-4. [PMID: 17754317 DOI: 10.1126/science.236.4809.1653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
The amount of water released on Mars in association with volcanism is estimated to equal a layer 46 meters deep over the entire planet. Most of this water was released in the first 2 billion years of martian history. The estimate is based on mapping the volcanic materials and by inferring the volatile content of the lavas. Water from other sources, such as plutonic activity and cometary contributions, is not included in the estimate.
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Wilson L, Head JW. A comparison of volcanic eruption processes on Earth, Moon, Mars, Io and Venus. Nature 1983. [DOI: 10.1038/302663a0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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