Detecting sub-glacial aquifers in the north polar layered deposits with Mars Express/MARSIS - art. no. L11204

摘要

The penetration of the MARSIS radar signal into the polar ice mass is modeled to determine the capability of the instrument to locate sub-glacial aquifers. As a ground penetrating radar, the orbiting MARSIS transmits a signal > 1 W between 1 - 5 MHz. In this work we will investigate the effect of ice reflective and conductive losses on the radar-detection of subsurface aquifers using an MGS MOC profile of the ice layering. We find that a basal lake located similar to 2.5 km below the surface is at the limit of detectability.