Meter-scale morphology of the north polar region of mars
January 1, 2007
Mars' north pole is covered by a dome of layered ice deposits. Detailed (∼30 centimeters per pixel) images of this region were obtained with the High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO). Planum Boreum basal unit scarps reveal cross-bedding and show evidence for recent mass wasting, flow, and debris accumulation. The north polar layers themselves are as thin as 10 centimeters but appear to be covered by a dusty veneer in places, which may obscure thinner layers. Repetition of particular layer types implies that quasi-periodic climate changes influenced the stratigraphic sequence in the polar layered deposits, informing models for recent climate variations on Mars.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2007 |
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Title | Meter-scale morphology of the north polar region of mars |
DOI | 10.1126/science.1143544 |
Authors | Kenneth E. Herkenhoff, S. Byrne, P.S. Russell, K.E. Fishbaugh, A. S. McEwen |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Science |
Index ID | 70030058 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Astrogeology Science Center |