Mars Surface Stress Modelling

Investigation on the crustal structure of Mars with Finite Element Method

Master thesis (2021)

Authors

W. Qin Aerospace Engineering

Contributors

B.C. Root Astrodynamics & Space Missions - Aerospace Engineering (supervisor 1)
Faculty
Aerospace Engineering
Copyright: © 2021 WeiLun Qin
Mars FEM Stress Analysis Isostasy
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Published Date

23-08-2021

Language

English

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Faculty

Aerospace Engineering

Abstract

Mars has been a target for space exploration for decades. Exploring the interior of the red planet could reveal information about its formation and evolution. In this thesis, the crustal structure of Mars is investigated by a power spectra analysis of both topographic and gravitational data. With models of flexural isostasy, the best-fitting lithospheric (crust + uppermost mantle) thickness is found to be between 136 km and 158 km globally. Possible values for the thickness of the lithosphere range from 120 km to 580 km. In addition, a 3D flat Finite Element Method (FEM) model is created for Mars. The FEM Mars model incorporates the above-mentioned crustal profiles and calculates the surface stresses in the regions of interest. The calculated stresses are compared to observed faults in Tharsis, Hellas, and Utopia to reveal information about the evolution of these regions.