Amapari Marker Band, Gale Crater, Mars: Event Horizon With Highest Bedrock Iron and Zinc Concentrations Detected by Curiosity's Alpha Particle X‐Ray Spectrometer

Abstract

Abstract Alpha Particle X‐ray spectrometer (APXS) analyses of the distinct Amapari Marker Band (AMB), Gale crater, Mars reveal the highest, in situ, FeO and Zn abundances (47.51, 2.23 wt%), and elevated MnO associated with a lower rippled unit. APXS analyses also reveal a marked shift in provenance, to a generally basaltic composition, compared to the underlying Mg‐sulfate‐bearing strata, which persists into the overlying stratigraphy. The AMB also records perturbation in the MgSO4‐forming conditions present above and below. AMB chemistry could be consistent with a volcanic ash source; high metal concentrations resulting from volatile reactions within an ash cloud. Alternatively, syn‐ and/or post‐depositional precipitation processes within a primary lake setting and/or a later diagenetic event or events may have played a role. Ongoing and future work will aim to further constrain processes responsible for deposition of the AMB, the high metal concentrations and its regional and global implications.

Keywords

• APXS
• Mars
• Amapari marker band
• highest in situ Martian Fe and Zn
• marked change in provenance
• gale crater