Record magnitude earthquakes were recorded on Mars
Earthquakes on Mars have been observed by scientists using the spacecraft InSight since 2019, which they can do with a seismometer installed on it. Analyzing the data collected by the device, the specialists have just revealed a record strong seismic activity.
They recorded a total of 2 such events. The first earthquake was known as S0976a and it was 4.2 magnitude, while the second, S1000a, was 4.1 magnitude. The interval between them was 24 days and with each magnitude 5 times more than the previous earthquakes.
Their epicenter is also interesting, because it is the so-called red planet. It is located in the dark zone, ie on the opposite side of the InSight location to the celestial body. He has never seen such activity at such a long distance.
It is noteworthy that the range and duration of energy released during the S1000a was also exceptional as it lasted 94 minutes, which is also a record.
The above events were detected by the device with the help of seismic waves. In the case of S1000a, these waves passed through the crust of Mars, close to the surface, and S0976a – at a depth of about 50 km. Near the huge system of Mariner Canyons.
The authors’ work was published in The Seismic Record.
See also: An unusual earthquake on Mars indicates that the red planet is volcanically active
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