New findings on internal structure of Mars
Recent research has shed new light on the internal structure of Mars.
One of the most significant findings is the discovery of a layer of molten silicates between the Martian mantle and core.
This layer, which is estimated to be up to 500 kilometers thick.
This thought to have formed early in Mars's history when the planet was still very hot.
The presence of a molten silicate layer suggests that Mars's core is denser and more compact than previously thought.
molten silicates
New findings on internal structure of Mars
Another new finding is that the Martian mantle is more heterogeneous than previously thought.
This means that the mantle is not composed of a uniform material, but rather a mix of different materials.
This heterogeneity is thought to have resulted from the early history of Mars, when the planet was subject to intense volcanic activity.
A global magnetic field would have protected Mars from harmful solar radiation, making it a more habitable environment.
New findings on internal structure of Mars
The molten silicate layer and the heterogeneous mantle are both potential habitats for microorganisms.
By understanding the internal structure of Mars, we can better identify potential targets for future life detection missions.
InSight lander basic details
InSight ---- Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport.
It’s a Mars lander that has been studying the planet's interior since November 2018.
It is the first spacecraft dedicated to investigating the deep interior of Mars.
The InSight lander is equipped with a suite of instruments that are designed to measure the Martian interior.
These instruments include,
Seismometer (SEIS): A seismometer is a device that measures ground motion. It is so sensitive that it can detect the vibrations caused by Marsquakes, which are tiny earthquakes.
Heat Flow Probe (HP3): The HP3 heat flow probe is designed to measure the flow of heat from the Martian interior to the surface. This information can be used to learn more about the composition and structure of the Martian interior.
Rotation and Interior Structure Experiment (RISE): The RISE experiment uses radio tracking to measure the tiny changes in Mars's rotation and orientation. This information can be used to learn more about the structure of the Martian core and mantle.
Key features of the InSight lander:
Size: 3.5 meters in diameter and 1.8 meters tall
Mass: 358 kilograms
Power source: Solar panels
Instruments: Seismometer, heat flow probe, and rotation and interior structure experiment
Mission objectives: To study the interior structure and processes of Mars
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