Mars Express Image of Lava Channels on Ascraeus Mons
The image shows a small 60 by 180 km region on the southern side of the volcano Ascraeus Mons. The
image has a resolution of about 17 m per pixel and clearly shows evidence for volcanic features on the surface. These features, known as lava channels, are formed when a cooling crust forms over flowing lava to make a temporary tunnel. As the lava eventually empties out of the tubes the roof of the tunnel collapses leaving elongated depression across the surface. Such features have also been viewed on Earth.
Date: 22 Mar 2004
Satellite: Mars Express
Depicts: Ascraeus Mons
Copyright: ESA/DLR/FU Berlin (G. Neukum)
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