The Formation of Fluvial Channels on Alba Mons, Mars

Abstract:

Alba Mons is one of the oldest and largest volcanoes in the Tharsis region on Mars. Previous research shows that channel features exist on the central edifice and flanks of Alba Mons along steeply sloped portions of the volcano. These fluvial channels are embayed by younger lava flows and disrupted by graben, indicating they formed while the volcano was still active. The purpose of this study is to determine what meltwater channel morphology and distribution on Alba Mons indicate about volcano-ice interactions when the volcano was active. This study involves mapping surface features around Alba Mons, followed by a detailed investigation of individual well-defined channels using high resolution images to quantitatively relate channel morphology to formation processes and environmental conditions during volcanic activity. High-resolution analysis is currently ongoing, and results from the study will be presented. Channel networks and drainage basins on the northern side of the volcano are numerous and well-defined, allowing for high-resolution 2D and 3D analysis.