American scientists from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and other scientific institutions have for the first time managed to reproduce in laboratory conditions the phenomenon known as Mars “spiders”. The study was published in the scientific journal Planetary Science Journal (PSJ).
Martian “spiders” are a geological feature that resemble large black arachnids on the surface of the Red Planet. Such patterns on the landscape can reach a kilometer in diameter.
Orbiters first spotted the “spiders” in 2003. At first, these stationary objects were a complete mystery, but scientists eventually determined that the spiders were formed when carbon dioxide ice on the planet's surface suddenly sublimates—turns into gas without first melting into liquid.
During the Martian spring, sunlight passes through layers of frozen carbon dioxide, heating the soil underneath. This causes some of the ice to evaporate, creating pressure.
When it becomes too strong, the gas bursts out, dragging streams of dark dust with it. Soil particles leave characteristic “many-legged” traces on the surface.
In the new study, scientists replicated the process on a smaller scale using a laboratory chamber. The researchers placed simulated Martian soil in a container and covered it with frozen carbon dioxide. They then heated the mixture with a special lamp.
After a series of attempts, the team found the right combination of conditions that allowed the “spider” to form. The reaction took about 10 minutes.
According to scientists, their discovery has allowed them to better understand the processes of the Martian climate and geology.
