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Scientists have discovered that the largest earthquake ever recorded on Mars was caused by seismic activity within the planet, rather than a strike by a space object. The earthquake, known as a “marsquake,” was detected by instruments attached to the InSight lander in 2021. InSight is a Mars explorer operated by NASA.

While the strength of the largest marsquake was rated at 4.7, which would not be considered significant on Earth, it is extremely powerful on Mars. Marsquakes occur when pressure builds up within Martian soil, causing rock structures to break. The InSight lander has identified over 1,300 marsquakes using a highly sensitive seismometer.

The seismometer’s design allows it to differentiate between seismic signals originating from within Mars and those caused by external factors like wind or meteorite strikes. To confirm if a marsquake is caused by seismic activity or an external force, scientists analyze various factors. In the case of the strongest recorded marsquake, an international team led by researchers from the University of Oxford examined evidence of a crater that could have been created by a meteorite impact.

However, after an extensive search using satellite data from InSight and other space agencies, no new, larger crater was found. This led the researchers to conclude that the largest marsquake was the result of powerful tectonic forces deep within Mars, indicating that the planet is more seismically active than previously believed.

According to Benjamin Fernando, a physics professor at Oxford University who led the study, Mars does not display ongoing tectonic movements. Instead, the release of stress within Mars’ crust caused by billions of years of development and cooling is believed to be responsible for marsquakes. Understanding these processes is crucial for future exploration and settlement on Mars.

The findings of this study represent a significant step forward in our knowledge of Martian seismic activity. Constantinos Charalambous, a planetary scientist at Imperial College London, described the research as a significant step toward better unraveling the tectonic processes of Mars.

Further studies will help scientists determine areas on Mars that are safe for human habitation and areas to be avoided. The research provides valuable insights into the geological activity of the Red Planet and contributes to our understanding of other planets in our solar system.

Sources:

– “Scientists now believe the largest quake ever recorded on Mars was the result of seismic activity” (VOA Learning English)
– “Study Suggests New Cause for Strongest ‘Marsquake’ Ever” (Reuters)
– “Exploring Mars’ Seismic Activity” (University of Oxford)
– “InSight – Mars Lander” (NASA)

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