Computer Science
Scientific paper
Aug 2000
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2000mpse.conf...59g&link_type=abstract
International Conference on Mars Polar Science and Exploration, p. 59
Computer Science
Mars (Planet), Mars Surface, Iceland, Magnetic Materials, Magnetization, Mars Pathfinder, Viking Mars Program, Optical Properties, Magnetic Properties, Snc Meteorites, Dust, Basalt, Water, Soils
Scientific paper
The Viking landers and the Pathfinder lander carried instrument packages to investigate the magnetic properties of the soil and dust on Mars. The instruments consisted of small permanent magnets that accumulated magnetic dust particles suspended in the Martian atmosphere. From the results we now know that there is a strongly magnetic mineral in the Martian soil and dust. The SNC meteorites (Shergottites-Nakhlites-Chassignite), assumed to be Martian surface rocks, are not magnetic enough to explain the high magnetization of the soil/dust on Mars observed by the Viking and Pathfinder landers. It is therefore indicated that some (oxidative) mechanism has enhanced the magnetisation of the surface material. Based on the magnetic and optical properties of the accumulated dust, the magnetic phase has tentatively been identified as maghemite, gamma-Fe2O3 present as cement in or stain on silicate agglomerates. It is, however, not possible to exclude that the magnetic phase is titanomagnetite (Fe3-xTix)O4 or titanomaghemite (gamma-Fe2-xTix)O3 having been inherited directly from the bedrock. The properties and the formation of this magnetic material are of considerable interest. It may give invaluable clues to answer questions about the role of water in the soil forming processes on Mars. Has the formation of the red soil on Mars taken place predominantly via oxidation of Fe(II) in aqueous solution eons ago when Mars was warmer and wetter? Or is the soil forming process an ongoing process of breakdown and oxidation of surface rocks? The material can be studied by separating it from the soil/dust with magnets offering a unique opportunity to make comparative studies on robotic Mars missions. Finding terrestrial analogues is essential to gain insight into how to answer the above questions. Additional information is obtained in the original extended abstract.
Gunnlaugsson Haraldur P.
Helgason Ö.
Weyer George
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