An Examination of the Rheology of Martian Debris

Introduction: Three landslides sites located within the Valles Marineris (0o-20o S and 30o-90o W), studied using Viking data [1,2,3] have been reexamined using MOLA topography data and MOC images. Previously we have validated the extent to which the relative value and absolute variations of empirical parameters derived from Chezy-type models describe the behavior of the General’s slide debris flow in Virginia [4]. We learnt that if we wish to improve our understanding of dynamics of martian debris aprons it is necessary to search for geomorphic signatures that can be used to estimate velocity, in addition to examining channel topography and flow thickness. In this study, MOC, THEMIS and MOLA data have been used to derive apron topography, thickness, and where possible travel speeds. These data have been combined with a Chezy modeling approach to examine their dynamics and to determine to first order their rheologies.