A statistical approach to decipher the tectonic control on the geometry of Martian channels: Case study from Pyrrhae Fossae, Noachis Terra, Mars

Abstract

Channel networks in the mid-latitude during the late Noachian to early Hesperian Period have invoked opinions in favor of presence of water on Martian surface. Disregarding the controversy of the presence of water, this study aims to probe into the controlling factors involved in the development of the channel pathways. These apparently curvilinear channels may have certain similarities in map pattern though their origin and development might differ in time and space with subtle differences, cryptically engraved within their geometries. Our study of the geometries of the channels and craters with the aid of appropriate statistical methods help us to group channels with different geometrical attributes, implying the control of pre-existing tectonic lineaments of the terrain on the channel course development. This research uses such high precision statistical analyses on THEMIS-IR Day Global Mosaic and detailed observations from MOLA colorized elevation map, HRSC images, HRSC MOLA Blended DEM within the area, Pyrrhae Fossae region, Noachis Terra.