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Ancient impact and aqueous processes at Endeavour Crater, Mars
S W Squyres1, R E Arvidson, J F Bell
1Department of Astronomy, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. squyres@astro.cornell.edu
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|May 5, 2012
Summary
The Mars rover Opportunity discovered zinc enrichments and gypsum veins on Endeavour Crater's rim. These findings suggest past hydrothermal activity and potentially habitable conditions in the Martian region.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Geology
- Astrobiology
Background:
- The Mars rover Opportunity explored Endeavour Crater, an ancient impact site.
- Crater rim deposits consist of impact-produced basaltic breccias, showing Earth-like stratigraphy.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate geological features and chemical compositions at Endeavour Crater's rim.
- Determine the origin of localized enrichments and vein systems.
- Assess implications for past habitability and water activity.
Main Methods:
- In-situ analysis of Martian surface materials by the Opportunity rover.
- Geochemical investigation of breccia composition and vein mineralogy.
- Stratigraphic analysis of impact deposits.
Main Results:
- Localized zinc enrichments were identified in breccia materials, indicative of hydrothermal alteration.
- Gypsum-rich veins were observed cutting sedimentary rocks near the crater rim.
- Evidence suggests precipitation from low-temperature, upward-flowing aqueous fluids from the rim.
Conclusions:
- Hydrothermal alteration occurred at Endeavour Crater, evidenced by zinc enrichments.
- Gypsum veins indicate past low-temperature aqueous fluid flow, creating temporary habitable conditions.
- These fluids contributed to the formation of Meridiani Planum's sulfate-rich sandstones.
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