Enigmatic linear features in the Northern Hemisphere of Mars: Their formation process

Abstract

A variety of explanations have been proposed for intersecting networks of dark linear features on Mars. To better understand the origin and significance of these enigmatic linear features (ELFs), we have characterized ELFs located between 20°W and 80°W in the Northern Hemisphere of Mars. Our results show that while ELFs have several unusual characteristics, they are nevertheless dust devil tracks. Both features occur during equivalent Mars seasonal climatic conditions and trend in similar directions. While our data support the dust devil hypothesis, ELFs have atypical patterns that have implications for understanding the local and regional climate on Mars. Copyright 2005 by the American Geophysical Union.