[ESAC Seminar] Jensen Lawrence

“Erosion and Infill of Complex Craters Across Mars’ Surface”

Impact craters are the most common geomorphic feature in the Solar System. Their ubiquity has led to their use as standard measures of numerous planetary properties, including surface age, geological composition, and stratigraphy. Since erosive and depositional processes modify, and eventually obscure or destroy craters, they are also an indicator of the surface processes active on a planetary body. This is of particular importance for Mars, which is home to millions of impact craters and has a rich history of hydrological, fluvial, glacial, volcanic, and aeolian activity. In this study, we perform a survey of 22,595 complex craters—craters with diameters above 7 km—across Mars’ surface. By analyzing the topography of fresh craters, we develop quantitative laws that link the initial depths and rim heights of craters to their diameters. Applying these laws to modified craters, we determine the extent of crater modification as a function of geography. Cross-referencing these results with known geological and geomorphic features, we find evidence of geologically recent volcanism, pervasive modification of crater floors in the northern lowlands, and erosion due to ancient fluvial activity. Overall, this study provides a powerful new perspective on Martian history.

ESAC Early-Career Seminar Series —

A forum for students and postdocs to share recent research, hone presentation skills, and build community among peers, sponsored by the EAPS Student Advisory Committee. Open to current EAPS graduate and undergraduate students and postdocs. Typically hosted on Thursdays during the semester, including pizza lunch.

Contact: esac.officers@gmail.com