Rocks Here Sequester Some of Mars' Early Atmosphere
Detailed Description
Rocks Here Sequester Some of Mars' Early Atmosphere.
This image combines data from two instruments (High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment and Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars) onboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter to map color-coded composition over the shape of the ground within the Nili Fossae plains region of Mars. Carbonate-rich deposits in this area (green hues) hold some carbon formerly in the atmosphere's carbon dioxide, while sand dunes (brown hues) are composed of olivine-bearing basalt and purple hues are basaltic in composition.