This image shows faults and pits in the north polar residual cap that have not been previously recognized.

The faults and depressions between them are similar to features seen on Earth where the crust is being pulled apart. Such tectonic extension must have occurred very recently, as there the north polar residual cap is very young, as indicated by the paucity of impact craters on its surface.

Alternatively, the faults and pits may be caused by collapse due to removal of material beneath the surface. The pits are aligned along the faults, either because material has drained into the subsurface along the faults or because gas has escaped from the subsurface through them.

Written by: Ken Herkenhoff   (16 December 2009)

More info and image formats at http://hirise.lpl.arizona.edu/PSP_001513_2650

Image: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona