Active aeolian processes on Mars: A regional study in Arabia and Meridiani Terrae

Geophysical Research Letters
By: , and 

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Abstract

We present evidence of widespread aeolian activity in the Arabia Terra/Meridiani region (Mars), where different kinds of aeolian modifications have been detected and classified. Passing from the regional to the local scale, we describe one particular dune field in Meridiani Planum, where two ripple populations are distinguished by means of different migration rates. Moreover, a consistent change in the ripple pattern is accompanied by significant dune advancement (between 0.4–1 meter in one Martian year) that is locally triggered by large avalanche features. This suggests that dune advancement may be common throughout the Martian tropics.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Active aeolian processes on Mars: A regional study in Arabia and Meridiani Terrae
Series title Geophysical Research Letters
DOI 10.1029/2011GL048955
Volume 38
Issue 20
Year Published 2011
Language English
Publisher American Geophysical Union
Contributing office(s) Astrogeology Science Center
Description L20201, 6 p.
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