A record of syn-tectonic sedimentation revealed by perched alluvial fan deposits in Valles Marineris, Mars

Abstract On Mars, basins formed by tectonic processes are rare and mostly have unconstrained subsidence histories. One method for understanding this record of is through associated alluvial fans, which sourced from uplifted areas accumulate in downthrown basins. The source, morphology, superposition fan deposits can be used to reconstruct fault kinematics, the relative timing accommodation space formation, and, turn, influence had on Martian formation. Here we use high-resolution orbital data sets characterize sediment with syn-tectonic sedimentation two regions Valles Marineris canyons: Coprates Chasma Juventae Chasma. These comprise fans current canyon floor low-gradient surfaces perched several kilometers above floor. We interpret as remnant deposits, originally at former since been offset due normal faulting. preservation vertically generations supports a progressive, basinward migration activity into original hanging wall or repeat along zone. Each episode faulting was followed shift drainages, led fault-scarp degradation formation new generation fans. Multiple episodes occurred during evolution basins, fluvial sporadically active. Our results demonstrate, first time that depositional cyclicity linked deformation, possibly representative regional throughout Marineris.