Monday, September 17, 2012

Pedestal Crater in Malea Planum


As the name suggests, pedestal craters usually have ejecta (material thrown out from impact) that is above the surrounding terrain. In some cases, the material can be more erosion-resistant. Some suggest that these units were once rich in volatiles (e.g., water ice).

This specific pedestal in Malea Planum is one of the largest on Mars, and fine layering is visible along its margins.

Photo credit: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona

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