Bedrock Geochemistry and Alteration History of the Clay‐Bearing Glen Torridon Region of Gale Crater, Mars
نویسندگان
چکیده
Glen Torridon is a topographic trough located on the slope of Aeolis Mons, Gale crater, Mars. It corresponds to what was previously referred as “clay-bearing unit”, due relatively strong spectral signatures clay minerals (mainly ferric smectites) detected from orbit. Starting in January 2019, Curiosity rover explored for more than 700 sols (Martian days). The objectives this campaign included acquiring detailed understanding geologic context which were formed, and determining intensity aqueous alteration experienced by sediments. Here, we present major-element geochemistry bedrock analyzed ChemCam instrument. Our results reveal that two main types exposures identified lower part are associated with distinct chemical compositions (K-rich Mg-rich), able propose mineralogical interpretations. Moreover, topmost stratigraphic member exposed region displays stronger diagenetic overprint, especially at locations close unconformable contact overlying Stimson formation, where composition significantly deviates rest Torridon. Overall, values Chemical Index Alteration determined elevated Martian standards, suggesting formation through open-system weathering. However, there no indication some terrains visited Curiosity, turn implies enhanced orbital mostly controlled non-compositional factors.
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ژورنال
عنوان ژورنال: Journal Of Geophysical Research: Planets
سال: 2022
ISSN: ['2169-9100', '2169-9097']
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1029/2021je007103