Chloride-Bearing Materials in the Southern Highlands of Mars

• DOI: 10.1126/science.1150690
• Publication Date: 2008-03-20T21:28:28Z
• Authors: M. M. Osterloo; V. E. Hamilton; J. L. Bandfield; T. D. Glotch; A. M. Baldridge; P. R. Christensen; L. L. Tornabene; F. S. Anderson
• Keywords: Hesperian; Noachian; Albedo (alchemy)

Chlorides commonly precipitate during the evaporation of surface water or groundwater and volcanic outgassing. Spectrally distinct deposits consistent with chloride-bearing materials have been identified mapped using data from 2001 Mars Odyssey Thermal Emission Imaging System. These are found throughout regions low albedo in southern highlands Mars. Geomorphologic evidence orbiting imagery reveals these to be light-toned relative their surroundings polygonally fractured. The small (< approximately 25 km(2)) but globally widespread, occurring middle late Noachian terrains a few occurrences early Hesperian terrains. identification chlorides ancient suggests that near-surface was available widespread Martian history.