NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) has revealed many fascinating images using one of its six scientific instruments called the High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) camera. The newest images reveal information about the geologic history of Mars, how the temperature and chemistry of the crust changed over time, and conditions for potential habitats for life.

New images focus on an area located just north of the equator called Capen crater. Hundreds of small fractures in clusters can be seen at the surface. They’re called deformation bands and are caused by stresses below the surface in granular or porous textured bedrock. Similar features and processes can be seen on Earth. Deformation clusters can be seen in Utah sandstones (granular texture). Fractures a few yards wide and a few miles long were formed from compression or stretching of underground layers. They become exposed at the surface by erosion of overlying layers. Evidence of water flowing along the fractures can be seen in the color and texture of the rock exposed along the fracture.

Scientists believe that billions of years ago on Mars, small fractures directed an extensive flow of underground water through a layer of sandstone. Structures can reveal groundwater effects over the entire planet and are sites for future exploration and investigations into the history of water and water-related processes on Mars.

HiRISE reveals smaller details Mars’ surface, more than any previous instruments. Since MRO arrived at Mars in March 2006, more data has been retrieved than all other current and past missions combined.