CORRELATIONS BETWEEN THE GEOLOGIC PROCESSES OF IMPACT CRATERS ON EARTH AND MARS

In our quest to understand Mars and its geologic processes, it is important to first begin with our understanding of Earth. Using Earth analogs for Martian landscapes allows us to not only use our current knowledge of geologic structures, but to expand it to incorporate numerous variables such as lack of biosphere, gravitational changes, etc. Crater analogs can help us understand the geologic processes that occur as a result of impact craters. Does this geologic landscape change the kinds of features present within itself? By studying slope, crater size, and types of structures, new insights into the Red Planet’s differences or similarities to Earth can be determined. Statistical evaluation of these variables will bring to light any correlations present between these two planets. With this continued effort to gain a greater understanding of terrestrial bodies in our solar system, we open up opportunities to study those outside of it.