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The geologic history of Margaritifer basin, Mars
Author(s) -
Salvatore M. R.,
Kraft M. D.,
Edwards C. S.,
Christensen P. R.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
journal of geophysical research: planets
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2169-9100
pISSN - 2169-9097
DOI - 10.1002/2015je004938
Subject(s) - geology , structural basin , fluvial , martian , volcano , terrain , mars exploration program , sedimentary rock , sedimentary basin , geomorphology , geologic record , paleontology , earth science , astrobiology , ecology , biology , physics
In this study, we investigate the fluvial, sedimentary, and volcanic history of Margaritifer basin and the Uzboi‐Ladon‐Morava outflow channel system. This network of valleys and basins spans more than 8000 km in length, linking the fluvially dissected southern highlands and Argyre basin with the northern lowlands via Ares Vallis. Compositionally, thermophysically, and morphologically distinct geologic units are identified and are used to place critical relative stratigraphic constraints on the timing of geologic processes in Margaritifer basin. Our analyses show that fluvial activity was separated in time by significant episodes of geologic activity, including the widespread volcanic resurfacing of Margaritifer basin and the formation of chaos terrain. The most recent fluvial activity within Margaritifer basin appears to terminate at a region of chaos terrain, suggesting possible communication between surface and subsurface water reservoirs. We conclude with a discussion of the implications of these observations on our current knowledge of Martian hydrologic evolution in this important region.