Casius Quadrangle - Physiography and Geology

Physiography and Geology

The high latitude Casius quadrangle bears several features that are believed to indicate the presence of ground ice. Patterned ground is one such feature. Usually, polygonal shapes are found poleward of 55 degrees latitude. Other features associated with ground ice are Scalloped Topography, Ring Mold Craters, and Concentric Crater Fill.

• Map of Casius quadrangle with major features labeled.

• Patterned ground in the form of polygonal features is associated with ground ice. It is rare to be found this far south (45 degrees north latitude). Picture taken by Mars Global Surveyor.

• Periglacial Forms in Utopia, as seen by HiRISE. Click on image to see patterned ground and Scalloped Topography.