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Astrobiology Investigations at a Martian Hematite SiteChristensen et al, using data from the Mars Global Surveyor Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES), have identified gray crystalline hematite in a 350 km by 750 km region near Sinus Meridiani. The deposit corresponds closely to the low-albedo highlands unit 'sm', mapped as a wind-eroded, ancient, subaqueous sedimentary deposit. Christensen et al interpreted the Sinus Meridiani deposit to be 'an in-place, rock-stratigraphic sedimentary unit characterized by smooth, friable layers composed primarily of basaltic sediments with approximately 10 to 15 % crystalline gray hematite.' Christensen et al discussed five possible mechanisms for the formation of this deposit: direct precipitation from standing, oxygenated, Fe-rich water; precipitation from Fe-rich hydrothermal fluids; low-temperature dissolution and precipitation through mobile groundwater leaching; surface weathering and coatings; thermal oxidation of magnetite-rich lavas. Four of these mechanisms involve the interactions of rock with water, and thus have implications in the search for evidence of microbial life.
Document ID
20020002108
Acquisition Source
Johnson Space Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Allen, Carlton, C.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, TX United States)
Westall, Frances
(Lunar and Planetary Inst. Houston, TX United States)
Schelble, Rachel T.
(New Mexico Univ. Albuquerque, NM United States)
Date Acquired
August 20, 2013
Publication Date
April 1, 2001
Publication Information
Publication: General Meeting of the NASA Astrobiology Insititute
Subject Category
Exobiology
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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