Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
Dec 2002
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2002agufm.p22a0383s&link_type=abstract
American Geophysical Union, Fall Meeting 2002, abstract #P22A-0383
Mathematics
Logic
5464 Remote Sensing, 5470 Surface Materials And Properties, 6225 Mars
Scientific paper
Mars Global Surveyor MOC, MOLA, and TES observations are used to identify, characterize, map, and understand the origin and evolution of the hematite-bearing deposits and associated units in the Terra Meridiani region of Mars. MOC images were used in tandem with MOLA topographic data to define mappable units as well as determine superposition and embayment relationships based on planimetric configuration, topography, brightness, and texture. The extent of the hematite-bearing deposit was delineated by a spectral index calculated from TES emissivity data. The defined units were then characterized using additional remote sensing observations including MOLA-based intrashot pulse width (a surface roughness measure) and TES-based bolometric albedo, thermal inertia, and spectral emissivity. Four major units were identified in the study area (-5 to +10 N; -10 to +10 E). The Dissected Cratered Terrain (DCT) is the basal unit in the area and consists of Noachian cratered terrain that has been extensively dissected by channel systems. This unit exhibits a low albedo, a high thermal inertia, and a mineralogy dominated by basaltic phases. The Etched (E) unit overlies the DCT and is interpreted to be a volcaniclastic construct based on a morphology that includes polygonal blocks separated by raised ridges and layered deposits exposed by aeolian stripping. This unit is mineralogically comparable to DCT and other dark regions, but is distinguished by a regionally unique combination of remote sensing properties, including a moderately high albedo and high thermal inertia. The elevated albedo of this unit may be attributable to the presence of glass devitrification products analogous to palagonite. The hematite-bearing Plains unit (Ph) consists of smooth, dark plains that are locally reworked into dunes. The mineralogy of the Ph unit is similar to the DCT and E units, with the addition of a hematite component that is hypothesized to be carried in the dune material. Origin hypotheses for the hematite component encompass a wide range of processes including direct volcanic emplacement, glass devitrification, and aqueous alteration. In many places the Ph unit only partially covers the E unit, which is manifest as exposures of bright material within the dark plains. The DCT, E, and Ph units are covered by a mantle in the northern portion of the study area that has undergone aeolian stripping to expose the underlying materials. The mantled unit largely occurs on Noachian cratered terrain and is mapped as Mantled Cratered Terrain (MCT). Exploration of the hematite-bearing deposits by the 2003 Mars Exploration Rover will allow testing of the hypotheses presented for both units Ph and E, owing to exposures of unit E within the MER landing ellipse. The rover-based measurements will allow a better understanding of the extent to which the unusual remote sensing properties of these units are indicative of aqueous processes.
Arvidson Ray E.
Deal Kim S.
Garvin James B.
Hynek Brian Michael
Kieniewicz J. M.
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