Title:

Image analysis of the Tharsis region of Mars, using data from the Viking mission.

Martin J Allen
1993
School of Geological Sciences
Kinsgton University.

Abstract:

The unmanned American and Soviet missions of the 60's and 70's considerably improved Human knowledge of Mars. With the Viking mission of 1976 and the first landing of an Earth probe on another planet; understanding of the Geological processes that shaped its' surface took another giant leap. Data sent back during the operational life of the Viking landers and orbitors is still being studied today and new advancements in computer technology peels away another layer to the mystery of Mars. Mars Observer* currently en-route will keep scientists busy for many years to come. The Tharsis region of Mars, located in the Westernn hemisphere, displays the largest shields seen on any planet and the Valles Marineris canyon system extends over a third of the way along the planets equator. The massive amounts of lava extruded to the surface in this region and the widespread fracturing and Graben formation indicate a tumultuous Geological history which may be the result of an aborted attempt to precipitate the breakup of the planet's lithosphere to form Tectonic plates.

* Mars Observer was lost soon after this dissertation was submitted.