POSSIBLE GLACIAL ACTIVITY WITHIN THE DICHOTOMY BOUNDARY IN NILOSYRTIS MENSAE, MARS

Abstract

This study investigates possible past or extant glacial activity within an unmapped area in Nilosyrtis Mensae, Mars. The aim is to identify and analyze landforms of potential glacial origin, using geomorphological mapping techniques. High-resolution satellite data from the CTX and HiRISE cameras, as well as elevation data from MOLA, were used to construct a geomorphological map of the 2050 km2 large study area. The mapping revealed several landforms indicative of glacial processes, such as lobate debris aprons, lineated valley fills, and concentric crater fills, that suggest dominantly cold-based glaciation. Several arcuate ridges resembling terrestrial terminal moraines were identified, indicating episodic glacial advance and retreat. A sinuous ridge intersecting a network of ridges may represent a subglacial meltwater channel, potentially pointing to warm-based glaciation. The spatial relationships between the landforms suggest a complex glacial history, with multiple glacial episodes likely influenced by obliquity-driven climate variations. The findings contribute to a broader understanding of Mars’ geological and climatic history, reinforcing the hypothesis of extensive glaciation in the mid-latitudes of Mars. Higher-resolution topographic and thermal data could facilitate further research and enhance our comprehension of past glacial dynamics on Mars.