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Ice sculpture in the Martian outflow channelsViking Orbiter and terrestrial satellite images are examined at similar resolution to compare features of the Martian outflow channels with features produced by the movement of ice on earth, and many resemblances are found. These include the anastomoses, sinuosities, and U-shaped cross profiles of valleys; hanging valleys; linear scour marks on valley walls; grooves and ridges on valley floors; and the streamlining of bedrock highs. Attention is given to the question whether ice could have moved in the Martian environment. It is envisaged that springs or small catastrophic outbursts discharged fluids from structural outlets or chaotic terrains. These fluids built icings that may have grown into substantial masses and eventually flowed like glaciers down preexisting valleys. An alternative is that the fluids formed rivers or floods that in turn formed ice jams and consolidated into icy masses in places where obstacles blocked their flow.
Document ID
19830034350
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Lucchitta, B. K.
(U.S. Geological Survey Flagstaff, AZ, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
November 30, 1982
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
83A15568
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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