The geology of Mars is the scientific study of the surface, crust, and interior of the planet Mars. It emphasizes the composition, structure, history, and physical processes that shape the planet. It
Mars as seen by the Hubble Space Telescope
Viking Orbiter 1 view image of Valles Marineris.
Mars Orbital Laser Altimeter (MOLA) derived image of Planum Boreum. Vertical exaggeration is extreme. Note that residual ice cap is only the thin veneer (shown in white) on top of the plateau.
HiRISE image of simple rayed crater on southeastern flank of Elysium Mons.
The magnetic field of Mars is the magnetic field generated from Mars's interior. Today, Mars does not have a global magnetic field. However, Mars did power an early dynamo that produced a strong magne
Martian Dynamo. The schematic illustration of the ancient dipolar magnetic field of Mars generated by a core dynamo process.
Timing of the Martian dynamo. Grey shading represents possible age constraints (in Ga years) for the early and late dynamo. Stars indicate new age constraints from MAVEN data. [a] Early dynamo before the formation of Hellas, Isidis, and Argyre. [b] The cessation of the early dynamo based on large basin population. [c] The age of ALH84001. [d] Late dynamo after the formation of the major basins.