NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) used its High-Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) camera to capture a mysterious hole in the Arsia Mons region, one of three dormant volcanoes in the Tharsis Montes volcano range.
Researchers believe that this hole could be just a collapsed skylight or an opening into subterranean lava tubes, but it may also just be a cylindrical pit. The latter may be the result of a collapse that happened much deeper underground, as similar craters exist on Earth, and can measure hundreds of meters deep.
- Feed a passion for science and technology – Kids can learn more about the challenges of space exploration with this LEGO Technic NASA Mars Rover...
- Conduct a test flight – This advanced building kit for kids ages 10 and up includes a buildable toy version of NASA’s Ingenuity helicopter, which...
- AR brings the mission to life – The accompanying augmented reality app experience lets kids dive into the details of the rover and its mission
Sometimes the tops of lava flows freeze on the surface even while the lava continues to move underground in a lava tube. If these tubes drain, then lava tube caves can be left behind,” said Shane Byrne, Professor of Planetary Sciences at University of Arizona.
