This image covers a exposure of clay-rich bedrock on the “shore” of the Northern plains, north of Mawrth Vallis.

The relatively bright areas reveal a complex terrain with a range of textures and enhanced colors . We probably need to send a rover here to understand the complex history of these very ancient deposits.

Written by: Alfred McEwen (audio recording by Tre Gibbs)   (19 September 2012)

More info and image formats at http://hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/ESP_028367_2085

Image: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona