New research offers glimpse into the dynamic environmental processes and water cycle on Mars as morning frost is discovered on Martian volcanoes
Recent research from an international team of researchers, including Khalifa University鈥檚 Dr. Mohamed Ramy El-Maarry, provides new insights into the Martian water cycle. High-resolution images from the European Space Agency鈥檚 Trace Gas Orbiter have revealed morning frost deposits on the calderas of the Tharsis volcanic region, offering significant implications for our understanding of Mars鈥� water cycle and the planet鈥檚 potential for supporting future human exploration.
The team鈥檚 findings were published in, a top 1% journal.
The Tharsis region is home to some of the largest volcanoes in the solar system. Observations from the Colour and Stereo Surface Imaging System (CaSSIS) on the orbiter revealed bluish frost deposits on the caldera floors and rims that form during the cold Martian mornings but disappear by afternoon. The frost primarily occurs during the colder Martian seasons.
Spectral data and images from the Mars Express orbiter confirmed these observations and climate model simulations indicate that the surface temperatures are low enough to support the formation of water frost, rather than carbon dioxide frost. This suggests that the frost is atmospheric in origin, rather than volcanic, an important distinction given the location of the frost deposits.
The team鈥檚 research points to the role of microclimates in local frost formation and their contribution to Mars鈥� broader water cycle. The presence of transient morning frost in this region implies an active exchange of water between the Martian surface and atmosphere. The discovery enhances our understanding of Mars鈥� current hydrological processes and the potential for future human missions to use local water sources.
Water is a crucial resource for any potential human presence on Mars, and the discovery of these transient frost deposits provides a hint that water, even in small quantities, is still actively cycling on the planet.
Further studies are now required to understand the detailed mechanisms of frost formation and its seasonal variability. As we continue to explore Mars with more sophisticated instruments and missions, each discovery brings us closer to unraveling the mysteries of the Red Planet and preparing for the possibility of human exploration.聽聽
Jade Sterling
Science Writer
16 Aug 2024
