ESA's Mars Express has provided compelling evidence of ancient glaciers within the Deuteronilus Cavus, a Martian crater. Images from the High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC), taken on October 25, 2024, reveal 'debris aprons,' remnants of rock-covered glaciers. These formations suggest that Mars once had a climate that allowed ice to accumulate at mid-latitudes, a stark contrast to the planet's current arid conditions.
The images showcase smooth, rounded flows extending from the base of the crater wall. These debris-covered glaciers moved slowly downslope, creating the gently sloping bulges visible today. The erosive power of ice and water has significantly widened the crater, potentially doubling its original size over billions of years.
A wide channel carved out on the right edge of the image provides a striking example of glacial activity. This U-shaped valley, similar to glacial formations on Earth, indicates a period of glaciation. The channel may have initially formed from flowing water or subsurface drainage, later widening due to glacial activity. These observations continue to provide insights into Mars' geological history and the potential for past habitable environments.