6 Polar Caps

Abstract

The permanent polar caps of Mars constitute the largest known reservoirs of H₂O on the planet. The permanent caps are distinguished from the seasonal snow covers that have been known for centuries. The seasonal snow consists of CO₂ that condenses out of the atmosphere in the winter hemisphere [8]. During summer, the seasonal snow cover gradually evaporates, and the permanent cap is exposed. The permanent polar caps are recognisable as topographic domes rising about 3 km above the surrounding terrain. They have an extent of around 1000 km in the north and 400-800 km in the south. They consist of layers of H₂O, dust and CO₂ that have been deposited through millions of years. Bright white areas indicate a currently active interaction with the Martian climate system. Dark areas reveal an extensive layering thought to preserve a record of climate changes on Mars. The caps may contain preserved samples of biological origin, and geological indications of meltwater may be a clue to subsurface environments where life might exist. The polar regions are thus particularly interesting in relation to the search for life on Mars.