Geologic Map of MTM −15027, −20027, −25027, and −25032 Quadrangles, Margaritifer Terra Region of Mars

Summary

Mars Transverse Mercator (MTM) quadrangles −15027, −20027, −25027, and −25032 (lat 12.5°−28° S., long 330°−335° E. and lat 22.5°−28° S., long 324.5°−330° E.) in southwestern Margaritifer Terra include diverse erosional landforms, sedimentary deposits, and tectonic structures that record a long geologic and geomorphic history. The northeastern regional slope of the pre-Noachian crustal dichotomy (as expressed along the Chryse trough) and structures of the informally named Middle Noachian or older Holden and Ladon impact basins dominate the topography of the map area. A series of mesoscale outflow channels, Uzboi, Ladon, and Morava Valles, integrated these formerly enclosed basins by overflow and incision around the Noachian/Hesperian transition, although some flooding may have occurred earlier. The area includes excellent examples of Late Noachian to Hesperian valley networks, dissected crater rims, alluvial fans, deltas, and light-toned layered deposits, particularly in Holden and Eberswalde craters. Structural forms include Tharsis-radial grabens, Hesperian wrinkle ridges, floor-fractured impact craters, and severely disrupted chaotic terrains. These well-preserved landforms and sedimentary deposits represent multiple erosional epochs and discrete flooding events, which provide significant insight into the geomorphic processes and climate change on early Mars.

First posted January 23, 2014