High altitude infrared spectroscopic evidence for bound water on Mars.

The reflectivity of the Martian surface has been measured between 2.0 and 4.0 microns. A broad absorption band is observed which has a minimum at 2.85 microns. The position and shape of the band is compared to features in numerous terrestrial minerals. Bound water in the Martian surface material is the most likely cause of the observed band. The strength of the observed band suggests a bound water content of approximately 1% by weight. The band is inconsistent with more than a few % limonite or hydrated polymeric carbon suboxide. A mean particle radius of about 100 microns is deduced. The quality of bound water derived has a range of geological, climatic, and exobiological implications.