Discovery of Olivine in the Nili Fossae Region of Mars
January 1, 2003
We have detected a 30,000-square-kilometer area rich in olivine in the Nili Fossae region of Mars. Nili Fossae has been interpreted as a complex of grabens and fractures related to the formation of the Isidis impact basin. We propose that post-impact faulting of this area has exposed subsurface layers rich in olivine. Linear mixture analysis of Thermal Emission Spectrometer spectra shows surface exposures of 30% olivine, where the composition of the olivine ranges from Fo30 to Fo70.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2003 |
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Title | Discovery of Olivine in the Nili Fossae Region of Mars |
DOI | 10.1126/science.1089647 |
Authors | T.M. Hoefen, R. N. Clark, J. L. Bandfield, M. D. Smith, J.C. Pearl, P. R. Christensen |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Science |
Index ID | 70025525 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |