MARS GEOLOGY (ASYNCHRONOUS MODE COURSE)

The geology of Mars includes the scientific study of the surface, crust and interior of the planet Mars, considering the composition, structure, history and physical processes that shape the planet, where cratering has been the most common process due to meteorite impacts, and partial or complete volcanism cannot be excluded. Therefore, taking into consideration the similarity of Mars with the planet Earth in many aspects, with characteristics such as mountains, valleys and impact craters as well as unique geological characteristics that distinguish it from Earth, the latter will be the subject of study in areas such as volcanism, tectonics and asteroid and comet impacts, among other aspects.

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

a) Define the basic geomorphology and mineralogy related to the water activity,  explain how to identify hydrated minerals and describe the mineralogy and geological evolution of Mars.

b) Describe Mars' geology and Martian landscape, including the different types of volcanoes found on the planet, explain the characteristics of shield volcanoes, Tharsis Montes, and Olympus Mons in relationship with evidence for volcanic activity on Mars and the effects of volcanic eruptions on the Martian landscape and define the possible implications of Martian volcanism for past and present habitability and the planet's evolution.