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Mottled terrain - A continuing Martian enigmaThe mottled plains material found in the northern Martian lowlands is discussed in terms of Mariner and Viking images as well as geologic mapping based on Viking images. The mottling in Mariner 9 images of this area was associated with albedo contrasts between bright crater-ejecta blankets and dark intercrater material, and dark-crested knobs. The interpretation of the plains material based on the Mariner images is compared to an interpretation of the higher-quality Viking images. Based on the newer images, the mottled terrain is theorized to be comprised of the four constituent members of the Vastitas Borealis formation of Late Hesperian age. Fluvial, aeolian, and glaciotectonic processes are responsible for the extensive modifications of the apparently volcanic formations. The northern plains are not completely understood in spite of the Viking images, and the varied geology in those plains requires more sampling to confirm the theories.
Document ID
19910057754
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Scott, D. H.
(USGS Flagstaff, AZ, United States)
Underwood, J. R., Jr.
(Kansas State University Manhattan, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1991
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Meeting Information
Meeting: Lunar and Planetary Science Conference
Location: Houston, TX
Country: United States
Start Date: March 12, 1990
End Date: March 16, 1990
Accession Number
91A42377
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NASA ORDER W-15814
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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