This is a cool photograph taken by ESA’s Mars Express spacecraft. It shows the Aeolis Mensae region on Mars, an area known to be on a tectonic transition zone. This might be an explanation for the long linear features and carved valleys.
The area is nearby the volcanic region of Elysium, which separates the southern highlands and the northern lowlands. Aeolis Mensae is right at the transition zone between these two regions, and there’s a 3 km (1.8 mile) elevation difference between the two regions. Why there’s such a steep drop is still a matter of discussion between planetary scientists.
The three-dimensional view was created on computer based on Mars Express’ stereo view, which was captured on March 26th and 29th, 2007.
Original Source: ESA News Release
Fraser Cain is the publisher of Universe Today. He's also the co-host of Astronomy Cast with Dr. Pamela Gay. He's the forum co-administrator of the Bad Astronomy/Universe Today forum with Bad Astronomer Phil Plait.
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