Non-linear flow modelling of a Martian Lobate Debris Apron

Abstract

The Martian mid-latitudes contain numerous small water-ice deposits, collectively termed viscous flow features (VFFs). The shape and topography of the deposits contain information on their past flow history and formation process. In order to access this information, it is imperative to get information on their deformational properties. Here we use a high-resolution digital topography map and ice-penetrating radar data in combination with an inverse method to constrain the deformational properties of a lobate debris apron, a class of VFF, in the southern hemisphere of Mars. We find that while the creep parameter and accumulation rates are not well constrained in absolute values, their ratio is robust. We also find that the creep exponent is most likely n ≤ 3.

Keywords

• Extraterrestrial glaciology
• glacier flow
• glacier mass balance
• glacier modelling
• ice temperature