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Mars surface composition from reflectance spectroscopy - A summaryVisible and near-infrared reflectance spectra and multispectral maps of the Martian surface are discussed, and implications of the data for the composition of the Martian surface are considered. Spacecraft and earth-based telescopic observations have confirmed the generally bimodal albedo distribution of the planet, dividing the surface into bright and dark regions. Mars spectra are characterized by the presence of strong Fe(+3) absorption, which is attributed to various ferric oxide minerals. Interpretations of the spectra from the dark regions indicate a basaltic or ultramafic source rock. Evidence for water ice or a highly desiccated metal hydrate has been obtained, along with evidence for CO2-ice only in the south polar cap. Mariner 9 observations of Martian dust suggest the presence of rather acidic rock or mineral particles, or a montmorillonite-type clay. Prospects for the future study of Martian surface composition include continuing earth-based spectrophotometric studies, and high-spectral-resolution mapping of a significant portion of the surface by the Galileo spacecraft and the next Mars mission.
Document ID
19800042224
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Singer, R. B.
(Massachusetts Inst. of Tech. Cambridge, MA, United States)
Clark, R. N.
(Hawaii, University Hawaii Institute of Geophysics, Honolulu, Hawaii; MIT, Cambridge, Mass., United States)
Mccord, T. B.
(Hawaii, University Hawaii Institute of Geophysics, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States)
Adams, J. B.
(Washington, University Seattle, Wash., United States)
Huguenin, R. L.
(Massachusetts, University Amherst, Mass., United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
December 30, 1979
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 84
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
80A26394
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7590
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7312
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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