HiRISE Observations of the Polar Regions of Mars

Details HiRISE Observations of the Polar Regions of Mars HiRISE Observations of the Polar Regions of Mars

Dec 2008

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2008agufm.p32b..05h&link_type=abstract

American Geophysical Union, Fall Meeting 2008, abstract #P32B-05

Physics

5422 Ices, 5462 Polar Regions, 5464 Remote Sensing, 6225 Mars

Scientific paper

Digital elevation models (DEMs) derived from MRO HiRISE stereo images allow meter-scale topographic measurements in the north polar layered deposits (NPLD) and distinction of slope vs. albedo effects on apparent brightness of individual layers. HiRISE images do not show thin layers at the limit of resolution. Rather, fine layering, if it exists, appears to have been obscured by a more dust-rich mantling deposit which shows signs of eolian erosion and slumping. Stratigraphic sequences within the NPLD appear to be repeated within exposures observed by HiRISE, indicative of a record of periodic climate changes. Granular flows sourced from within the dark, basal unit are suggestive of, but do not require, the presence of water during their formation. Active mass wasting of frost and dust has been observed on steep NPLD scarps in early spring, similar to dry, loose snow avalanches on terrestrial slopes. Bright and dark streaks are seen to evolve during the northern summer, evidence for active eolian redistribution of frost and perhaps dark (non- volatile) material. Relatively dark reddish patches observed within the north polar residual cap during the summer indicate that the cap is very thin (<1 m) or more transparent in places. HiRISE images of exposures of the south polar layered deposits (SPLD) show rectilinear fractures that are continuous across several layers and whose orientation is not affected by the topography of the exposure, suggesting that they were formed before erosion of the SPLD. They appear to extend laterally and vertically through the SPLD, like a joint set. While NPLD tectonism appears limited to isolated grabens, several faults have been observed by HiRISE in the SPLD, showing structural details including reverse fault splays that merge into bedding planes and possible evidence for thrust duplication. The faults may be the result of basal sliding (decollements) ramping into thrust faults near the margin of the SPLD.

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