The Surface of Mars

Introduction

We can now study the surface features of Mars at a resolution of about 5m (ca. 15 feet) and objects and distinces of 30 m are readily seen in the latest images from the Mars Orbiter Camera. This ability has enhanced the study of surfical features on the red planet, and we have gained considerable knowledge of surficial processes in action there.

In this clas, we are interested

The Ages of Mars

The age of the Martian surface. The geological timeline for Mars is divided into three time periods: Noachian, Hesperian, and Amazonian. The age of the Martian surface is determined by the size and number of crators exposed on its surface. The regions with the largest craters are the oldest.

Assignment

Please use the above link to review the determination of the different ages of the Martian surface. You will need this to work on Question 1 below.

Evidence of layered rocks

Water on Mars

Please go to the above link to complete this part of the exercise.

Assignment

Question 1: (Based on review of The age of the Martian surface) Why are the larger craters considered to be the oldest?

Question 2: Can you tell what geological processes formed so-called “sedimentary” layers seen in valley walls?

Question 3: How are the martian water chanels different from drainage formed by flowing water on Earth’s surface?

Web Resources

• A series of desert-likesurface features with explanations may be found at this site. Some of the above images used in this exercise were taken from this educational site.
• Mars Orbiter Camera (MOC) Image Gallery of images from the Mars Global Surveyor. This site contains the strips of flight path images that NASA scientists use to study the surface of the planet. If you have a fast computer with a big screen, this site is even more fun than watching television!

update 04 December 2001.