Distribution of hydrogen in the near surface of Mars: evidence for subsurface ice deposits

Science. 2002 Jul 5;297(5578):81-5. doi: 10.1126/science.1073722. Epub 2002 May 30.

Abstract

Using the Gamma-Ray Spectrometer on the Mars Odyssey, we have identified two regions near the poles that are enriched in hydrogen. The data indicate the presence of a subsurface layer enriched in hydrogen overlain by a hydrogen-poor layer. The thickness of the upper layer decreases with decreasing distance to the pole, ranging from a column density of about 150 grams per square centimeter at -42 degrees latitude to about 40 grams per square centimeter at -77 degrees. The hydrogen-rich regions correlate with regions of predicted ice stability. We suggest that the host of the hydrogen in the subsurface layer is ice, which constitutes 35 +/- 15% of the layer by weight.

MeSH terms

  • Atmosphere
  • Dry Ice
  • Extraterrestrial Environment
  • Gamma Rays
  • Hydrogen*
  • Ice*
  • Mars*
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Neutrons
  • Spacecraft
  • Spectrometry, Gamma
  • Spectrum Analysis
  • Water

Substances

  • Dry Ice
  • Ice
  • Water
  • Hydrogen