New research published in the journal Geology on , reveals that the magmatic systems beneath Pavonis Mons, one of the largest volcanoes on Mars, are far more complex and active than previously understood. The research challenges the long-held assumption that volcanic eruptions on the Red Planet occurred as simple, singular events.
Reconstructing Volcanic Evolution Through Orbital Data
The study, led by Bartosz Pieterek of Adam Mickiewicz University, utilized a combination of detailed surface mapping and orbital mineral data to reconstruct the volcanic and magmatic evolution of the region south of Pavonis Mons with unprecedented detail. This approach allowed researchers to trace the history of magma movement and changes within the volcano over extended periods.
The findings indicate that magma systems beneath the surface remained active and complex even during Mars’ most recent volcanic period. “Our results show that even during Mars’ most recent volcanic period, magma systems beneath the surface remained active and complex,” explained Dr. Pieterek. “The volcano did not erupt just once – it evolved over time as conditions in the subsurface changed.”
Transition of Eruption Phases from Fissure to Cone Volcanism
The research reveals that the volcanic system south of Pavonis Mons developed through multiple eruptive phases. Initially, lava erupted through long fissures, spreading widely across the planet’s surface. This type of eruption, known as fissure-fed eruptions, created broad lava plains.
Over time, volcanic activity transitioned to a more focused, point-source activity, resulting in the formation of cone-forming vents. Despite the differing appearances of lava flows from these various phases, the study demonstrates that they were all supplied by the same underlying magma system. This suggests a sustained and evolving magmatic plumbing system beneath the volcano.
Analyzing Mineral Fingerprints and Magma Evolution
Each eruptive phase at Pavonis Mons exhibits distinct mineral compositions. These variations provide crucial clues for scientists to track how the magma changed over time within the planet’s interior. The differences in mineralogy act as a “fingerprint” of the magma’s evolution.
According to Dr. Pieterek, these mineralogical differences indicate that the magma itself underwent evolution, likely reflecting changes in the depth of its origin and the duration of its storage beneath the surface before erupting. This provides insights into the processes occurring within the Martian mantle.
New Insights into the Red Planet’s Interior
Given the current inability to directly sample volcanoes on Mars, orbital observations remain the primary method for understanding the planet’s interior. This study provides a rare glimpse into the structure and evolution of Mars’ interior without requiring physical samples.
The findings reinforce that Mars is not a geologically static planet. Instead, it once possessed a dynamic and complex internal system, similar to the geological processes occurring on Earth. This data helps scientists understand how rocky planets form and build their landscapes over billions of years. The research, published on , by Archyde.com, builds on previous observations from ESA’s Mars Express, which captured images of Pavonis Mons alongside other massive Martian volcanoes – Arsia and Ascraeus Mons.
The discovery of a 9-million-year period of hidden activity, as reported by Discover Magazine, further emphasizes the prolonged and complex nature of volcanic processes on Mars. This extended period of activity challenges previous assumptions about the planet’s geological history and suggests that volcanic processes may have played a more significant role in shaping the Martian surface than previously thought.
The implications of this research extend beyond Pavonis Mons. Understanding the complex magmatic systems beneath Martian volcanoes is crucial for assessing the planet’s potential for past or present habitability. Volcanic activity can release gases and heat, potentially creating subsurface environments suitable for microbial life. Further research will focus on applying these findings to other volcanic regions on Mars to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the planet’s geological evolution and potential for life.
