Astronomers have discovered traces of extensive crack and channel networks at about 24 kilometers depth on Mars, where molten magma once moved towards volcanoes. This finding could significantly change scientists' understanding of Mars' internal structure and tectonics.
According to Oxu.Az, the press service of the University of Oxford reported the discovery. Planetary scientist Tobermori Mackey-Champion stated: "Previously, volcanic activity on Mars was thought to occur through much simpler mechanisms. Our new research shows that deep on Mars, there was a complex circulation of molten rocks covering almost the entire crust."
An international team analyzed data from NASA's InSight mission SEIS seismometer and detected unusual seismic anomalies at about 24 km depth in the Martian crust. Computer models revealed these anomalies are boundaries between two magmatic rock layers differing in mineral composition and iron-silicon ratio.
Scientists believe these anomalies are traces of long, branched "magma rivers" that once fed the planet's giant volcanoes. This indicates that complex geological structures can form even without plate tectonics. The study also suggests that the number of potentially habitable exoplanets may be larger than expected.
