On Zones of Potential High Seismic Activity on Mars

Abstract

The joint analysis of current data on the topography and nonequilibrium part of the Martian gravity field allowed us to obtain a detailed pattern of the distribution of nonhydrostatic stresses in the Martian interior. The criteria for selection of possible sources of marsquakes were large values of shear stress against the background of significant tensional stresses. The rheological models considered were the elastic model, the one with the lithosphere, and the model with the lithosphere and possible melting zones in it. Independently from the rheological model chosen, zones of high shear and tensional stresses in the Martian crust and mantle were revealed beneath the Hellas and Argyre impact basins, Mare Acidalium, Arcadia Planitia, and Valles Marineris.