Global Distribution of Neutrons from Mars: Results from Mars Odyssey
Abstract
Global distributions of thermal, epithermal, and fast neutron fluxes have been mapped during late southern summer/northern winter using the Mars Odyssey Neutron Spectrometer. These fluxes are selectively sensitive to the vertical and lateral spatial distributions of H and CO2 in the uppermost meter of the martian surface. Poleward of +/-60° latitude is terrain rich in hydrogen, probably H2O ice buried beneath tens of centimeter-thick hydrogen-poor soil. The central portion of the north polar cap is covered by a thick CO2 layer, as is the residual south polar cap. Portions of the low to middle latitudes indicate subsurface deposits of chemically and/or physically bound H2O and/or OH.
- Publication:
-
Science
- Pub Date:
- July 2002
- DOI:
- 10.1126/science.1073541
- Bibcode:
- 2002Sci...297...75F
- Keywords:
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- PLANET SCI