Evolution of the seasonal polar caps of Mars over more than one martian year

摘要: The Vis/NIR OMEGA imaging spectrometer on-board Mars Express has been operating in orbit since January 2004. Its spectral range makes it possible to identify H2 O and CO2 ices frosts from their characteristic signatures the near IR. dominant icy component (either ice or ice) can be determined, as well constraints on grain sizes inclusions (dust other type of ice). available data now covers more than one full martian year climatic cycle. similarities differences between two M-years will discussed. It is interesting note that which dominates perennial cap (H2 North, South) also seasonal after mid local spring. present isolated patches, are stable position South with much stronger variations North (CO2 These results have implications for surface atmosphere interactions.