Stress and tectonics on MarsDeformation of the Martian lithosphere and the various theoretical formulations used to model its behavior on local, regional, and global scales are studied. An overview of the various classes of tectonic features found on Mars is presented. The tectonic record on Mars, which provides the basic framework for interpreting theoretical thermomechanical models in terms of major tectonic events and provinces is summarized. The thickness of the elastic lithosphere is estimated using its response to local surface loads, and significant spatial variability is found, with values ranging from 20 to 300 km. A comparison of the major radial graben systems with theoretical stress models shows that more than one mechanism of lithospheric deformation is required to produce its enormous extent.
Document ID
19930043863
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Banerdt, W. B. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Golombek, Matthew P. (JPL Pasadena, CA, United States)
Tanaka, Kenneth L. (USGS Flagstaff, AZ, United States)