Pit Crater Chains Across the Solar System: Evidence for Subterranean Tectonic Caves, Porosity and Permeability Pathways on Planetary Bodies. Issue 12 (8th December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wyrick, D. Y.; Buczkowski, D. L.
• Is Part Of: Journal of geophysical research. Volume 127:Issue 12(2022)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2022-12-08
• Subjects: Planets -- Periodicals; Geophysics -- Periodicals; 559.9
• DOI: 10.1029/2022JE007281
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2169-9097

Abstract

Abstract: Pit crater chains are surface features comprised of linear assemblages of collapsed depressions that are identified on several solid bodies throughout the Solar System. On Earth, they have been observed to form when dilational motion on normal faults causes the overlying materials to collapse into the dilating segment of the buried fault. It has been hypothesized that pit crater chains observed on Mars, Enceladus, and various small bodies formed by the same process. Dilational fault movement can also create subsurface permeability pathways for fluid/volatile transport and trapping. Studying pit crater chains and tectonic caves on planetary bodies has implications for both in situ resource utilization and astrobiology, and should be considered as a potential driver for determining exploration targets. Plain Language Summary: Pit crater chains are common geologic features found on many different planetary bodies, including terrestrial planets, icy moons, and asteroids. They form from collapse into a subsurface void space, typically along extensional fractures and dilational faults. Pit crater chains represent significant subsurface void space capable of storage and transport of volatiles and ices. These subsurface void spaces could have important implications for in situ resource utilization and identifying habitable zones on planetary bodies. Because pit crater chains are easily identifiable from orbital imagery, they provide a valuable opportunity in the search for in situ resources. Key Points: Pit crater chains are a ubitquitous and easily identifiable geologic feature on many planetary bodies Pit craters form above extensional fractures and dilational faults on many planetary bodies Pit crater identification suggest significant subsurface void space capable of storage and transport of volatiles and ices