Scientists report that slope streaks on Mars form when layers of fine dust suddenly slip downhill, typically in the absence of water. The streaks appear to be produced mostly by dry processes driven by wind and dust activity, not liquid movement.
Recent research published in Nature Communications suggests that events like these are uncommon; fewer than one in a thousand streaks come from rocks striking the surface. Most streak formation results from seasonal cycles that stir up dust and wind. "Dust, wind and sand dynamics appear to be the main seasonal drivers of slope streak formation. Meteoroid impacts and quakes seem to be locally distinct, yet globally relatively insignificant drivers," said lead author Valentin Bickel of the University of Bern in Switzerland.
Bickel and colleagues applied deep learning methods to analyze more than two million slope streaks captured by NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter between 2006 and 2024. The census mapped five major streak hotspots across Mars.
"These observations could lead to a better understanding of what happens on Mars today. Obtaining long-term, continuous and global-scale observations that reveal a dynamic Mars is a key objective of present and future orbiters," stated Colin Wilson, ESA's project scientist for the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter.
The orbiter continues to monitor the planet to study Mars's ancient past and inhabitability. It delivers high-quality images and comprehensive mapping of atmospheric gases and surface water sites.
The featured image covers nearly six square kilometers and was captured on December 24, 2023, at 7.1 degrees south latitude and 173.4 degrees east longitude. CaSSIS image registration: MY37_027142_351.
Research Report:Dust, Sand and Wind Drive Slope Streaks on Mars
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