Oxford researchers find vast magma system 24 km beneath Mars surface
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
Oxford University researchers analyzing NASA InSight seismic data have identified a vast, interconnected magma system about 24 kilometers beneath Mars' surface. The findings suggest the planet's geological history is more complex than previously thought, with molten rock having moved across the crust. The system may extend hundreds to thousands of kilometers across Mars' northern hemisphere.
Key Facts
- The magma system lies about 24 kilometers below Mars' surface, according to Oxford University researchers.
- The system may extend hundreds to thousands of kilometers across Mars' northern hemisphere.
- The findings are based on seismic data collected by NASA's InSight mission.
- Modeling with hundreds of rock compositions showed iron- and magnesium-rich rocks beneath a boundary at 24 km depth.
Seismic Data Analysis
Oxford University researchers examined seismic data from NASA's InSight mission to study Mars' deep crust. They focused on a previously identified boundary at about 24 kilometers depth whose significance was unclear. Modeling with hundreds of different rock compositions revealed iron- and magnesium-rich rocks below the boundary and different rocks above it.
Geological Implications
The structure suggests that molten rock accumulated deep within Mars and separated into distinct layers over time. Magma appears to have moved across the planet's crust, despite Mars lacking Earth-like moving tectonic plates. The system may have extended hundreds to thousands of kilometers across the northern hemisphere.
1 source
Oxford researchers find vast magma system 24 km beneath Mars surface
