The objective of this observation is to examine a light-toned deposit in a region of what is called “chaotic terrain” at the base of the Valles Marineris canyon system.

The deposit displays a rough surface, in contrast to the smoothness of the surrounding area. Some parts of the surface appear as if they were eroded by a fluid flowing north and south, or perhaps sculpted by the wind. This area is also visible in a Context Camera image (P04_002747_1736). This deposit may be related to interior layered deposits in the Valles Marineris where it’s been suggested to have formed in an ancient lake.

This caption is based on the original science rationale.

Written by: HiRISE Science Team (audio: Tre Gibbs)   (15 October 2014)

More info and image formats at http://hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/ESP_037545_1730

Image: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona