Physics
Scientific paper
Dec 2008
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2008agufm.p41b1365t&link_type=abstract
American Geophysical Union, Fall Meeting 2008, abstract #P41B-1365
Physics
5415 Erosion And Weathering, 5464 Remote Sensing, 5470 Surface Materials And Properties, 6225 Mars
Scientific paper
Gale Crater represents a unique environment with one of the largest free-standing exposures of layered deposits in the equatorial region of Mars. Thick, laterally extensive sedimentary sequences with fine layering generally require an extended period of time to form, and therefore they capture rhythmic, cyclical, or episodic environmental changes that occurred in their depositional settings while they were forming. Using High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) and Context Camera (CTX) images, we have mapped and characterized the attitude and bedding geometry of layers exposed in the central mound in order to place constraints upon their mode of origin and evolution. Measurements of layers in the lower mound sequence from stereo pairs of HiRISE images reveal meter-scale to decameter scale layers that are near- horizontal. Layers in the upper mound, in contrast, have inclinations up to 15° and appear to have been deposited on an inclined erosional unconformity (previously identified in MOC images [1]). CRISM spectra indicate the presence of Mg and Fe phyllosilicates in some of the lower mound layers, and a sulfate- bearing layer has been identified immediately above the phyllosilicate-bearing layers. Gale Crater may represent an ancient lacustrine setting, although one that is capped off by eolian-deposited sediments that may be genetically related to the Medusae Fossae Formation (MFF). Fluvial channels that are sourced from the upper mound layers indicate a possible volatile-component in these presumably eolian deposits. Upcoming observations by the SHARAD radar instrument on MRO may provide further insight into the internal structure of the layered deposits and assess their possible connection to the MFF. [1] Malin, M.C. and K.E. Edgett (2000) Science, 290, 1927-1937.
Baldridge Alice
Bridges Nathan T.
Crowley J.
Hook S.
Marion Glenn
No associations
LandOfFree
Signs of aqueous activity in Gale Crater, Mars as viewed by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Signs of aqueous activity in Gale Crater, Mars as viewed by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Signs of aqueous activity in Gale Crater, Mars as viewed by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1238406