Open AccessMeasuring geologic time on Mars
Author(s) -
Doran Peter T.,
Forman Steven L.,
Sturchio Neil C.,
Clifford Stephen M.,
Papanastassiouje Dimitri A.
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
eos, transactions american geophysical union
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.316
H-Index - 86
eISSN - 2324-9250
pISSN - 0096-3941
DOI - 10.1029/eo081i045p00533
Subject(s) - mars exploration program , astrobiology , martian , planet , geology , aeolian processes , martian surface , atmosphere of mars , atmosphere (unit) , earth science , chronology , planetary surface , paleontology , geography , astronomy , meteorology , physics
Recent images from Mars show compelling evidence of near‐surface flowing water, aeolian activity, slope processes, and ice cap evolution that underscores the dynamic geologic history of the planet. Establishing an accurate chronology for Martian planetary features is critical for addressing fundamental questions about the evolution of the planet's surface and atmosphere and the differentiation of its interior. For example, how long was standing water on the surface? If life did evolve on Mars, did it occur before or after the evolution of life on Earth?