Olivine and pyroxene diversity in the crust of Mars

Science. 2005 Mar 11;307(5715):1594-7. doi: 10.1126/science.1109098. Epub 2005 Feb 17.

Abstract

Data from the Observatoire pour la Minéralogie, l'Eau, les Glaces, et l'Activité (OMEGA) on the Mars Express spacecraft identify the distinct mafic, rock-forming minerals olivine, low-calcium pyroxene (LCP), and high-calcium pyroxene (HCP) on the surface of Mars. Olivine- and HCP-rich regions are found in deposits that span the age range of geologic units. However, LCP-rich regions are found only in the ancient Noachian-aged units, which suggests that melts for these deposits were derived from a mantle depleted in aluminum and calcium. Extended dark regions in the northern plains exhibit no evidence of strong mafic absorptions or absorptions due to hydrated materials.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Absorption
  • Atmosphere
  • Calcium
  • Extraterrestrial Environment
  • Geologic Sediments
  • Iron Compounds*
  • Magnesium Compounds*
  • Mars*
  • Minerals*
  • Silicates*
  • Spacecraft
  • Spectroscopy, Near-Infrared
  • Spectrum Analysis
  • Time
  • Water

Substances

  • Iron Compounds
  • Magnesium Compounds
  • Minerals
  • Silicates
  • Water
  • pyroxene
  • olivine
  • Calcium