Analysis of Terraced Fans on Mars Using High-Resolution Digital Terrain Models

Abstract

With an almost constant stream of new data coming back from Mars missions, scientists are now able to speculate with clearer evidence on the geologic history of the planet, and much of the data indicates the previous existence of running water on the surface. This data includes images of dozens of identified fans, several of which have a unique stair-step topography. Little research has been done to investigate the formation of these terraced fans. Efforts are currently underway to create digital terrain models of two terraced fans using ISIS3 and Ames Stereo Pipeline photogrammetry software. These models, combined with existing images of the fans, can be analyzed and inspected for indicators of the fans’ formation, such as levees and boulders. These terrain models will eventually contribute to the data pool that planetary geologists can draw from while developing hypotheses about the history of Mars. The two fans proposed for investigation have been chosen due to their image coverage and are representative of terraced fans in general. Information drawn about the formations of these two fans could be applied to other terraced fans, which could provide further insight into the development of Mars and potentially point to the previous existence of water on Mars. We are working toward the production of at least two new data products that provide insight into the development of terraced fans on Mars.