RT Journal Article
T1 New evidence for a magmatic influence on the origin of Valles Marineris, Mars
A1 Dohm, James M.
A1 Williams, Jean-Pierre
A1 Anderson, Robert C.
A1 Ruiz Pérez, Javier
A1 McGuire, Patrick C.
A1 Komatsu, Goro
A1 Davila, Alfonso F.
A1 Ferris, Justin C.
A1 Baker, Victor R.
A1 Boynton, William V.
A1 Fairén, Alberto G.
A1 Hare, Trent M.
A1 Miyamoto, Hirdy
A1 Tanaka, Kennth L.
A1 Wheelock, Shawn J.
AB In this paper, we show that the complex geological evolution of Valles Marineris, Mars, has been highlyinfluenced by the manifestation of magmatism (e.g., possible plume activity). This is based on a diversity ofevidence, reported here, for the central part, Melas Chasma, and nearby regions, including uplift, loss of hugevolumes of material, flexure, volcanism, and possible hydrothermal and endogenic-induced outflow channelactivity. Observations include: (1) the identification of a new N50 km-diameter caldera/vent-like feature onthe southwest flank of Melas, which is spatially associated with a previously identified center of tectonicactivity using Viking data; (2) a prominent topographic rise at the central part of Valles Marineris, whichincludes Melas Chasma, interpreted to mark an uplift, consistent with faults that are radial and concentricabout it; (3) HiRISE-identified landforms along the floor of the southeast part of Melas Chasma that areinterpreted to reveal a volcanic field; (4) CRISM identification of sulfate-rich outcrops, which could beindicative of hydrothermal deposits; (5) GRS K/Th signature interpreted as water–magma interactions and/or variations in rock composition; and (6) geophysical evidence that may indicate partial compensation ofthe canyon and/or higher density intrusives beneath it. Long-term magma, tectonic, and water interactions(Late Noachian into the Amazonian), albeit intermittent, point to an elevated life potential, and thus VallesMarineris is considered a prime target for future life detection missions.
PB Elsevier Science Publishers
SN 0377-0273
YR 2009
FD 2009
LK https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/49344
UL https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/49344
LA eng
DS Docta Complutense
RD 10 abr 2025