During the 55th Lunar and Planetary Science Conference in The Woodlands, Texas, scientists unveiled a significant discovery on Mars. They found a massive volcano and likely glacier ice in its eastern Tharsis volcanic region, near the equator. This giant volcano, repeatedly observed by orbiting spacecraft since Mariner 9 in 1971, remained unrecognized due to erosion, concealed within Mars' iconic terrain of Noctis Labyrinthus and Valles Marineris.

 

Hidden Giant Discovered and Implications for Martian Exploration

Analyzing data from multiple Mars missions, including Mariner 9, Mars Odyssey, Mars Express, and others, the researchers unexpectedly stumbled upon the volcano. Within a year of orbiting Mars, Mariner 9 swiftly identified 20 volcanoes.

Though these volcanoes typically belong to Mars' ancient past, recent discoveries suggest otherwise. The detection of a large lake of liquid water beneath the south pole's ice and the presence of a magma plume in the mantle hint at ongoing volcanic activity.

Repetitive imaging of Mars by orbiting spacecraft led to the unearthing of a colossal volcano that had evaded detection for decades, concealed within the planet's renowned regions. However, erosion had obscured its recognition. This volcano, standing at 9,022 meters in elevation and spanning 450 kilometers in width, indicates a lengthy period of activity.

Confirmation of the volcanic nature of these features is evident in the central summit, the radial slopes extending 225 kilometers, and the caldera remnants, along with abundant lava flows and pyroclastic deposits surrounding the volcano. Additionally, the presence of blister-like mounds inside the volcano's perimeter suggests ice beneath it, potentially supported by recent volcanic deposits.

The coexistence of a glacier and the massive volcano presents a unique opportunity to explore Mars' geological evolution, aiding in the search for life and potential human habitation.

Pascal Lee, lead author of the study, highlighted the surprise of realizing they were within a vast, deeply eroded volcano while examining glacier remains. This region of Mars, characterized by layered mesas and visible caldera remnants, signifies active volcanic history.

READ ALSO: Mars Had Thousands of Massive Volcanic Eruptions That Changed Its Climate 4 Billion Years Ago, NASA Reveals

Exploring the Fire and Ice Nature of Mars' Noctis Volcano and Its Potential for Life

The volcano offers a fascinating history for exploration, but much about it remains unclear. While its ancient and long-lived nature is apparent, the exact timing of its volcanic activity remains a mystery. Despite indications of recent eruptions, uncertainties persist regarding its current eruptive potential and its suitability for astrobiology research and human exploration.

The research team is excited about future Mars expeditions due to the fascinating mix of fire and ice in the area. The Noctis volcano's history fascinates researchers with its blend of fracturing, thermal erosion, and glacial activity. Interpreted as a sprawling shield comprising layers of pyroclastic materials, lavas, and ice, it reflects cycles of snow and glacier accumulation.

Fractures and faults, linked to the Tharsis region's uplift, allowed magma ascent, causing thermal erosion and ice removal, resulting in catastrophic collapses.

Despite the remarkable discoveries surrounding the Noctis volcano, many mysteries persist. While its prolonged activity throughout Mars' history is evident, the precise timeline of its emergence remains elusive.

Questions also linger regarding its current volcanic activity and the possibility of future eruptions. Moreover, the potential combination of sustained warmth and water from ice raises intriguing possibilities for life to exist within the site.

As scientists grapple with these uncertainties, the Noctis volcano emerges as a captivating frontier for studying Mars' geological evolution, searching for signs of life, and planning future exploration endeavors.

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