Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter captures melting ice and dunes on northern ice cap

14 articles · Updated · Space.com · Apr 24

A new HiRISE image reveals crescent-shaped dunes and receding ice in Chasma Boreale, a valley with 4,600-foot walls on Mars' northern ice cap.
The photo highlights the effects of Martian spring, showing both melting ice and wind-shaped dunes that indicate prevailing wind directions on the planet.
This visual evidence underscores seasonal changes on Mars, drawing parallels to Earth's own spring and offering insights into Martian climate and surface processes.

A new discovery shows Mars is losing water faster. How does this change its chances for past or future life?

How does understanding Mars' climate collapse help us predict and manage Earth's own environmental future?

Are we certain ancient Martian shorelines were carved by water, or could another geological force be responsible?

If pure ice is the key to finding life, what's stopping us from drilling deep into Mars' polar caps now?

Mars may have had a vast ocean. Where are the prime targets for future missions to find its traces?

With enough ice to create an ocean, what are the biggest hurdles to using it for a human colony?