Planetary fluvial sedimentology and stratigraphy

Francesco Salese, Gian Gabriele Ori

Robotic exploration and studies in Martian sedimentary geology have never been more active. Fluvial sedimentary processes have been widely identified on Mars, based on observations of geomorphic features and stratigraphy. Orbital imagery has revealed a vast, ancient fluvial stratigraphic record and rover missions have enabled detailed sedimentological studies combined with mineralogical and chemical analyses. In some instances, the stratigraphic record encoding details of that Mars’ history and the signature of potential habitability is clearly visible and accessible both from orbiter and rover. Considering ongoing and future exploration missions aim to find potentially habitable environments, fluvial sedimentary rock outcrops therefore make desirable targets. This session invites contribution towards Martian fluvial sedimentary geology. In addition to the classic contributions, we particularly welcome presentations that utilise appropriate Earth analogues, both modern and ancient and/or laboratory/numerical simulation. As ongoing and upcoming rover missions are providing increased opportunity to study extraterrestrial sedimentary strata, understanding directly accessible Earth analogues from which to base comparisons has never been more essential. We especially welcome contributions from early-career scientists and sedimentologists who are new to planetary science.