Mars-Relevant Field Experiences in Morocco: The Importance of Spatial Scales and Subsurface Exploration

Area of Science:

• Planetary Science
• Geology
• Astrogeology

Background:

• Identifying suitable sampling sites on Mars requires integrating remote and local imaging data.
• Understanding the connection between different spatial scales of observation in rocky desert terrains is crucial for Mars exploration.
• Shallow subsurface exploration offers insights into past environmental conditions not detectable from the surface.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze methods for identifying sampling sites using remote and local imaging.
• To determine the information gained from shallow subsurface exploration.
• To improve sampling strategies for Mars analogue sites.

Main Methods:

• Fieldwork at the Ibn Battuta Mars analogue sites.
• Analysis of remote sensing data (satellite images) and in situ (local) imaging.
• Shallow subsurface excavations (20-30 cm deep) and sample analysis.
• Evaluation of imaging techniques for sample context preservation.

Main Results:

• Remote sensing aids general field targeting, but scale integration needs refinement.
• Shallow subsurface exploration can reveal past water activity (lacustrine periods) missed by surface data.
• Open-air outcrops and shallow excavations are vital for understanding recent geological history.
• Sample aggregation and cementation are best observed before crushing using instruments like the Close-Up Imager (CLUPI).

Conclusions:

• Integrating multi-scale imaging and shallow subsurface exploration significantly enhances the identification of scientifically valuable sampling sites.
• Shallow subsurface data is critical for reconstructing past Martian environments, particularly lacustrine periods.
• Optimizing rover imaging protocols before sample processing is essential for maximizing contextual information.