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Updated: Jul 17, 2026
06:04
Simulation of the Planetary Interior Differentiation Processes in the Laboratory
Published on: November 15, 2013
The global topography of Mars and implications for surface evolution.
D E Smith1, M T Zuber, S C Solomon
1Earth Sciences Directorate, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD 20771, USA. dsmith@tharsis.gsfc.nasa.gov
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|May 29, 1999
Summary
A high-accuracy topographic map of Mars reveals a low northern hemisphere, the Tharsis volcanic province, and the Hellas impact basin. This data informs our understanding of Martian geological history and water inventory.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Geology
- Geophysics
Background:
- Understanding Martian topography is key to deciphering its geological evolution.
- Previous topographic data lacked the resolution for detailed analysis of major features.
Purpose of the Study:
- To generate a high-accuracy global topographic map of Mars.
- To identify and characterize dominant topographic features and their origins.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA).
- Analyzed global elevation data to create a comprehensive topographical map.
Main Results:
- Identified a low northern hemisphere, likely shaped by internal mechanisms.
- Characterized the Tharsis volcanic province with two broad rises.
- Mapped the Hellas impact basin and its contribution to southern hemisphere elevation.
- Located three major drainage centers, with northern lowlands being the largest.
- Estimated the Martian polar cap water volume (3.2-4.7 million cubic kilometers).
Conclusions:
- The Martian topography is characterized by distinct large-scale features.
- Internal processes significantly influenced the northern hemisphere's topography.
- The Hellas basin played a role in shaping hemispheric elevations.
- The polar caps represent a significant, albeit limited, surface water reservoir.
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