Abstract

Granule- to cobble- sized clasts in the Glen Torridon region of Gale crater on Mars were studied using data captured by NASA's Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity rover between sols 2302 and 2593. The morphology and composition of clasts have the potential to reveal the nature and extent of erosional processes acting in a region. In this study, measurements of shape, size, texture and element abundance of unconsolidated clasts within lower Glen Torridon were compiled. Eight primary clast types were identified, all of which are sedimentary and can be compositionally linked to local bedrock, suggesting relatively short transport distances. Several clast types exhibit signs of aeolian abrasion, such as facets, pits, flutes and grooves. These results indicate that clasts are primarily the product of bedrock degradation followed by extensive aeolian wear.