Exploration of Victoria crater by the Mars rover Opportunity

Science. 2009 May 22;324(5930):1058-61. doi: 10.1126/science.1170355.

Abstract

The Mars rover Opportunity has explored Victoria crater, an approximately 750-meter eroded impact crater formed in sulfate-rich sedimentary rocks. Impact-related stratigraphy is preserved in the crater walls, and meteoritic debris is present near the crater rim. The size of hematite-rich concretions decreases up-section, documenting variation in the intensity of groundwater processes. Layering in the crater walls preserves evidence of ancient wind-blown dunes. Compositional variations with depth mimic those approximately 6 kilometers to the north and demonstrate that water-induced alteration at Meridiani Planum was regional in scope.

MeSH terms

  • Extraterrestrial Environment
  • Ferric Compounds
  • Mars*
  • Spacecraft
  • Water

Substances

  • Ferric Compounds
  • Water
  • ferric oxide