Geomorphological evidence of near-surface ice at candidate landing sites in northern Amazonis Planitia, Mars

JGR Planets
By: , and 

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Abstract

This work presents geomorphological analyses of an area at the boundary between Arcadia Planitia and northern Amazonis Planitia, situated in the northern mid-latitudes of Mars. Recent studies have indicated the presence of substantial volumes of near-surface excess ice in Arcadia Planitia, making this region a promising candidate for future human and robotic exploration. This study focuses on three specific candidate landing sites adjacent to the Arcadia Planitia: AP-1, AP-8, and AP-9. We have identified a wide range of ice-related morphologies, providing further evidence for the occurrence of excess ice in the study area. We have mapped and measured ∼9,000 thermal contraction polygons. We estimate ice beneath these polygons to be on the order of tens of cm from the surface, which is sufficiently shallow to be accessible for potential in situ resource utilization (ISRU). Recent impact craters that have been excavated into ice further suggest the presence of near-surface ice. Finally, the occurrence of ice and processes such as ice sublimation are likely responsible for the formation and subsequent modification of several observed features, including expanded craters, brain coral terrain, arcuate ridges, and thermal contraction polygons modified by sublimation. These results provide valuable insights into the ice distribution in the northern mid-latitudes and support the potential utilization of accessible ice resources for future human exploration efforts.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Geomorphological evidence of near-surface ice at candidate landing sites in northern Amazonis Planitia, Mars
Series title JGR Planets
DOI 10.1029/2024JE008724
Volume 130
Issue 5
Publication Date May 03, 2025
Year Published 2025
Language English
Publisher American Geophysical Union
Contributing office(s) Astrogeology Science Center
Description e2024JE008724, 38 p.
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