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Scattering And Absorption of Light in Planetary Regoliths
Published on: July 1, 2019
Fine particles on Mars: observations with the viking 1 lander cameras
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|October 1, 1976
Summary
Fine sediment drifts near Viking 1 suggest a deflationary event shaped the Martian surface. The absence of small particles may result from transport or destruction, with atmospheric dust observed.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Mars Geology
- Atmospheric Science
Background:
- Fine-grained sediment drifts are observed near the Viking 1 lander site on Mars.
- These drifts are often found in the sheltered areas behind large boulders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the morphology of sediment drifts to understand recent geological processes.
- To investigate the transport dynamics of fine Martian particles.
Main Methods:
- Morphological analysis of sediment drifts.
- Examination of particle size distribution and cohesive properties.
- Atmospheric dust analysis using lander camera rescan data.
Main Results:
- Sediment drifts are present, frequently located in boulder lee zones.
- Evidence suggests a recent deflationary event influenced some drifts.
- A unique curve in threshold velocity and particle size indicates particle cohesion.
- Small particles (around 150 micrometers) appear to be missing, possibly due to transport or destruction.
- Atmospheric rescan revealed significant red dust with a mean radius of approximately 1 micrometer.
Conclusions:
- The Martian surface near Viking 1 shows evidence of aeolian processes, including deflation.
- Particle cohesion plays a role in sediment transport dynamics.
- Atmospheric dust is a significant component, with fine particles potentially undergoing selective transport or destruction.
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