Project Description: Fluvial and hydrothermal studies using NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter's HiRISE images and Digital (Terrain) Elevation Models (DTM), combined with CTX, HRSC, CRISM, and other Mars or terrestrial data sets. These studies are focused mainly on the formation of gullies, channels, valleys and other fluvial landforms on Mars and Earth and understanding the environments in which they formed. Terrestrial analog sites, mapping, hydrologic or landform models will be used to illuminate the importance of various processes as well as understanding the implications for paleoclimatic change. Additional opportunities may also be available in assisting with HiRISE science planning and targeting support, submitting image requests, and analyzing acquired image data. Geology, geography, or planetary science background is desired.
NASA Relevance: This research would help us better understand Mars hydrologic, geologic, and paleoclimatic history. It would also help us to understand the environments that could have sustained life on Mars.
Work Description: Student would map drainage systems (gully, channel, valley system) using HiRISE stereo images. They would map the tributaries and fan deposits along with the channels. Student would map nearby landforms as appropriate, such as periglacial features, polygons, other fluvial features to better understand the environment in which they formed. Student would use the DTM to measure the slopes of these systems and calculate volumes and use a variety of morphologic and morphometric approaches to comparing these systems with other systems on Mar and on Earth.
Open or Reserved Project: Open, 2 positions