Constraints on Mars' recent equatorial wind regimes from comparison of observed with GCM-predicted aeolian feature orientations
Abstract
The orientations of aeolian features on Mars such as dunes and yardangs are controlled by the prevailing wind regime over their respective intervals of formation. Statistical analysis of the orientations of young features allows probing of Mars' recent wind regime and comparison with wind fields predicted by general circulation models (GCMs). We collect statistical distributions of transverse dune trends and yardang azimuths at nine sites on Mars (Fig. 1), and compare measured feature orientations to those predicted from interpretation of time-integrated wind vectors from the MarsWRF GCM [1, 2]. We focus on features atop interior layered deposits (ILDs) because their young surface ages [3] and erodible nature makes them applicable to determination of Mars' modern wind regime.
- Publication:
-
European Planetary Science Congress
- Pub Date:
- September 2013
- Bibcode:
- 2013EPSC....8..866S