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Regional dust deposits on Mars - Physical properties, age, and historyThis paper presents a description of the use of Viking infrared thermal mapper (IRTM), earth-based radar, and visual observations for the study of the existence of regional dust deposits. It is pointed out that these observations provide estimates of particle size, rock abundance, surface texture, thermal emissivity, and albedo. These estimates can be used to characterize surface deposits and to determine the degree of surface mantling. Attention is given to the regolith properties, atmospheric dust properties, and a model for formation of low-inertia regions. It is found that global dust storms deposit currently approximately 25 microns of material per year in the equatorial region. Over geologic time this value may vary from 0 to 250 microns due to variations in atmospheric conditions produced by orbital variations.
Document ID
19860047240
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Christensen, P. R.
(Arizona State University Tempe, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
March 10, 1986
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 91
ISSN: 0148-0227
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
86A31978
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-263
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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