Meander Loops and Point Bar Sequences: Evidence of a Stable Delta Plain Environment in Jezero Crater, Mars

S. C. Schon, C. I. Fassett, and J. W. Head
1Dept. of Geological Sciences, Brown University, Box 1846, Providence, RI 02912; [email protected]

Unambiguous deltaic geomorphology has only recently been identified on Mars. Studies of Eberswalde delta have highlighted the multi-lobe morphology of this deposit as evidence for a long-lived lacustrine system. Two well-exposed deltaic deposits in a 45- km crater (Jezero) in the Nilli Fossae region are associated with valley networks draining a 15,000-km² watershed and an incised outlet channel approximately correlative with the deltaic deposits. We analyze new data, and compare observations with terrestrial deltaic processes, focusing on fluvial sedimentary features, especially meander loops, scroll bars, and point bar sequences, to help constrain the depositional style and evolution of the deltas. These new observations point to a deltaic environment characterized by prolonged periods of steady discharge and stable baselevel – with significant implications for the Noachian climate system.

AAPG Search and Discover Article #90087 © 2008 AAPG/SEG Student Expo, Houston, Texas