HiPOD: Sunday, 27 September 2020
Exploring the Mounds in the Chryse Region

Exploring the Mounds in the Chryse Region
The mounds in this observation may have been formed by a process called “diapirism,” where material at depth is more buoyant (i.e., lower density) than the surrounding rocks so it rises to the surface.

Why might this be of interest? At HiRISE resolution, we might be able to study the uplifted material more closely, such as if there are clays or other aqueous materials present. If these mounds were formed by diapirism, it offers a deeper window into the Martian past. This area could also be an interesting site for a future exploration rover.

This caption is based on the original science rationale.

ID: ESP_027339_2060
date: 26 May 2012
altitude: 287 km

https://uahirise.org/hipod/ESP_027339_2060
NASA/JPL-Caltech/UArizona
#Mars #science #NASA

Black & white is less than 5 km across; enhanced color is less than 1 km. For full observation details, visit the ID link.