Mars' 750°F Divide
NASA data reveals southern hemisphere is scorching hot, up to 750 degrees warmer than the north, in a discovery that reshapes our understanding of the Red Planet's habitability
Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery about the internal structure of Mars, revealing a massive thermal anomaly beneath the surface of the Red Planet. The southern hemisphere of Mars is up to 750 degrees Fahrenheit (400 degrees Celsius) warmer than the northern hemisphere, according to a new research paper.
The discovery was made by analyzing archival data from three NASA spacecraft: Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Odyssey, and Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter. The team, led by Alexander Berne, formerly of Caltech and now at the University of Arizona, used a technique called 'tidal tomography' to infer the interior structure and temperature of Mars. This technique involves studying subtle changes in the orbital velocity of the spacecraft, which can reflect variations in Mars' gravitational field.
The data revealed that the mantle beneath Mars' southern hemisphere must be between 390 and 750 degrees Fahrenheit (200 and 400 degrees Celsius) warmer than the mantle in the north. This significant temperature difference suggests that the southern hemisphere may still be partially molten. Additionally, the crust in the south of Mars is on average 15.5 miles (25 kilometers) thicker than in the north.
The northern lowlands of Mars may have once been home to a large ocean, which could have played a role in shaping the planet's internal structure. The discovery of the thermal anomaly has significant implications for our understanding of Mars' habitability and its volcanic activity.
## Why it matters The discovery of the thermal anomaly beneath Mars' surface has significant repercussions for our understanding of the Red Planet's history and potential for life. The temperature difference between the southern and northern hemispheres could have affected the planet's habitability, making it more or less suitable for life to exist. Furthermore, the partially molten mantle in the southern hemisphere could have contributed to Mars' volcanic activity, shaping the planet's surface over millions of years.
The research paper, led by Alexander Berne, provides new insights into the internal structure of Mars, highlighting the complexity and diversity of the Red Planet's geology. As scientists continue to explore and study Mars, discoveries like this one will help us better understand the planet's history, its potential for life, and its place in our solar system.
