This Mars map shows variations in thickness of the planet's crust, the relatively thin surface layer over the interior mantle of the planet. It shows unprecedented detail derived from new mapping of variations in Mars' gravitational pull on orbiters.
Using Gravity and Topography to Map Mars' Crustal Thickness
Newly detailed mapping of local variations in Mars' gravitational pull on orbiters (center), combined with topographical mapping of the planet's mountains and valleys (left) yields the best-yet mapping of Mars' crustal thickness (right).
This map of Mars indicates locations of new craters that have excavated ice (blue) and those that have not (red). Albedo information comes from NASA's Mars Odyssey orbiter, and the map comes from NASA's Mars Global Surveyor orbiter.
This pair of maps based on albedo information from NASA's Mars Odyssey orbiter and topographical information from NASA's Mars Global Surveyor orbiter indicates locations of confirmed sites of recurrent slope linea on Mars.
Martian Features Formed When Material Moves Downslope
As on the Earth, many processes can move material down a Martian slope. This graphic compares seven different types of features observed on Mars that appear to result from material flowing or sliding or rolling down slopes.
This image from NASA's Mars Global Surveyor and Mars Odyssey spacecraft shows the context for orbital observations of exposed rocks that had been buried on Mars. The area is dominated by the Huygens crater, which is about the size of Wisconsin.
This image, combining data from two instruments aboard NASA's Mars Global Surveyor, depicts an orbital view of the north polar region of Mars. To the right of center, a large canyon, Chasma Boreale, almost bisects the white ice cap.
Wind-Related Topography in Phoenix's Region of Mars (Animation)
This image indicated NASA's Phoenix Mars Lander landing area on Mars to a topographical map indicating relative elevations in the landing region prior to landing. The elevations could have affected wind patterns at the site.
This image maps out the travels of NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Opportunity, from is landing site at Eagle Crater to the rim of Victoria Crater about six miles (9.7 kilometers) away in September of 2006.
This stereoscopic picture of NASA's Mars Odyssey spacecraft was created from two views of that spacecraft taken by the Mars Orbiter Camera on NASA's Mars Global Surveyor. 3D glasses are necessary to view this image.