Yardangs in the Intensely Eroded Lower Member of the Medusae Fossae Formation, Mars

Mathematics – Logic

Scientific paper

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1824 Geomorphology: General (1625), 5470 Surface Materials And Properties, 5475 Tectonics (8149), 5480 Volcanism (6063, 8148, 8450)

Scientific paper

The western exposures of the enigmatic Medusae Fossae Formation (MFF) on Mars are the focus of a new geologic mapping project recently funded by NASA. The westernmost component of the MFF has been identified during global mapping as being the stratigraphically lowest component of the three-member formation. Geologic mapping is being undertaken both to refine the stratigraphic relationships visible between various parts of this complex geologic unit, and to use the data available from recent spacecraft to test the numerous hypotheses of origin proposed for MFF. The most prominent landform present in western exposures of MFF is the yardang, an elongate erosional ridge produced by aeolian erosion of the MFF materials. By combining images of MFF yardangs obtained from the Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey, and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter spacecraft, yardangs can be examined at scales ranging from 100 m/pixel to 0.5 m/pixel. Scalloped faces on many of the yardangs suggest the possibility of a prominent structural grain within the MFF deposits, variable wind orientations during the aeolian erosion, or both. Large blocks are evident around most yardangs, derived by undercutting of a caprock that appears to be considerably more competent than the lower portion of the yardangs, most consistent with an ignimbrite origin. Moderate resolution reveals arcuate layering exposed at some locations within western MFF, interpreted here to represent a plunging anticline. As the mapping progresses, it appears likely that the lower member of MFF likely will be subdivided into additional mappable units that may provide new insight into the emplacement of this unusual but extensive deposit.

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