Martian surface can be covered with giant glaciers

Scientists from the University of Copenhagen published an interesting article in the journal Geophysical Research Letters. Osnovnoy send the article - the surface of the Red Planet may be covered with giant glaciers, which are covered with dust, and therefore unavailable for observation. However, scientists say they could see the outline of the glaciers in the images that are transmitted to Earth various satellites that are currently orbiting Mars.

Previously, scientists have found on the Martian surface area with a high albedo, and at one time it was thought that it is frozen carbon dioxide. But it turned out that it is still water, proof obtained through the machine Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter .



The thickness of the ice sheet, according to the MRO i>

Scientists were long-term observation of the surface of Mars, capturing all education, similar in some characteristics, with glaciers of the Earth. According to experts, the majority of glaciers on Mars is located in the middle latitudes (about 30-50 degrees) in both hemispheres of the planet. Researchers estimate and approximate amount of ice: in their view, on Mars is about 150 billion cubic meters of ice. Evaporation ice, apparently protects dust.



Photos taken High Resolution Stereo Camera, show that glaciers covered with a thin layer of dust (ESA / DLR / FU) i>

If this is indeed the case, and on the surface of Mars is a huge amount of ice, it can serve as an excellent tool for future colonies settlement outpost on the Red Planet.

Source: geektimes.ru/post/248780/