A progression of induration in Medusae Fossae Formation transverse aeolian ridges: evidence for ancient aeolian bedforms and extensive reworking

Abstract

ABSTRACTA progression of induration, erosion, and redeposition of transverse and networked transverse aeolian ridges (TARs) has been documented in the Medusae Fossae Formation (MFF), Mars. Cratered and eroded aeolian bedforms are rarely observed on Mars, indicating that those found in the MFF have been inactive for much longer than those found elsewhere. Indurated TARs are observed to grade into faceted MFF terrain, indicating a genetic relationship between the two. We propose that TAR deposition, induration and erosion have played a larger role in the surface morphology and evolution of the MFF than previously recognized. The deposition, induration, and erosion of TARs indicate that the MFF has undergone multiple cycles of reworking, and that much of its current surface morphology does not reflect the circumstances of its primary emplacement. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.