Post by spacecowboy2006 on Apr 10, 2017 16:26:19 GMT
Nearly everything in this view in Western Candor Chasma tells of erosion - the eroded the cliffs in the distance, and the sedimentary deposits in the middle and forground.
The origin of Ceti Mensa and other layered deposits within the canyons is a source of much debate: proposed interpretations include lake deposits, deposits of volcanic ash, deposits of windblown sand and dust, and glacial deposits. Recent spectral observations by the Mars Express and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter spacecraft have identified crystalline iron oxides and hydrated magnesium sulfate minerals on Ceti Mensa. These minerals are regarded as indicators of the presence of liquid water during their formation. The hydrated sulfate mineral kieserite, in particular, most commonly forms on Earth by evaporation of brines.
If this interpretation is correct, the thickness of Ceti Mensa suggests formation in standing bodies of water that were several kilometers deep.
hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/PSP_009460_1745
The origin of Ceti Mensa and other layered deposits within the canyons is a source of much debate: proposed interpretations include lake deposits, deposits of volcanic ash, deposits of windblown sand and dust, and glacial deposits. Recent spectral observations by the Mars Express and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter spacecraft have identified crystalline iron oxides and hydrated magnesium sulfate minerals on Ceti Mensa. These minerals are regarded as indicators of the presence of liquid water during their formation. The hydrated sulfate mineral kieserite, in particular, most commonly forms on Earth by evaporation of brines.
If this interpretation is correct, the thickness of Ceti Mensa suggests formation in standing bodies of water that were several kilometers deep.
hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/PSP_009460_1745
