Advances in Mars' north polar stratigraphy and geomorphology

Kenneth L. Tanaka

(Astrogeology Team, U.S. Geological Survey)

Geologic mapping using CTX, THEMIS VIS, HiRISE, MOC, and MOLA data reveal a more complex north polar stratigraphy than previously appreciated. Aeolian erosion of the polar deposits associated with dune accumulation and migration sculpted polar layered deposits, particularly during a significant hiatus driven by high obliquity that may have terminated about 4-5 million years ago. Another hiatus occurred after deposition of basal deposits during the Early Amazonian (~1-3 billion years ago).

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