Scientists have made a stunning discovery beneath the Martian surface, revealing mysterious structures where an ancient ocean once existed. Recent research, combining data from multiple space missions, indicates that active processes in Mars’ mantle may be driving the growth of Olympus Mons, the largest volcano in the solar system.
The discovery was presented by Bart Root from Delft University of Technology at the Europlanet Science Congress in Berlin. Root’s team identified around 20 dense features scattered near Mars’ north polar cap, with some resembling peculiar shapes, like a dog. The gravity data offers a new perspective on Mars’ northern hemisphere, suggesting these structures may be volcanic or compacted remnants from ancient impacts.
Using advanced modeling and satellite data, the research team analyzed Mars’ gravity field, uncovering insights into the planet’s internal mass distribution. The study integrated new findings from NASA’s InSight mission, which provided information on the Martian crust’s thickness, mantle dynamics, and interior processes.
The density map revealed that northern polar features are denser by about 300-400 kg/m³. This research also shed light on Tharsis Rise, where Olympus Mons is located. A vast, lightweight structure, approximately 1,750 kilometers wide and 1,100 kilometers beneath the surface, is causing the Tharsis region to bulge upward.
Dr. Root emphasized the significance of NASA’s InSight mission in reshaping our understanding of Mars’ interior. The findings suggest ongoing active movements within Mars, potentially leading to the creation of new volcanic features on the surface.
While Mars currently lacks active volcanoes, recent research indicates that the Tharsis region experienced resurfacing in the recent geological past. This points to the possibility that Mars has been volcanically active more recently than previously believed.
Nithin Rosh 
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