Machine-Learning-Driven New Geologic Discoveries at Mars Rover Landing
Sites: Jezero Crater and NE Syrtis
Abstract
A hierarchical Bayesian classifier is trained at pixel scale with
spectral data from the CRISM (Compact Reconnaissance Imaging
Spectrometer for Mars) images. Its utility in detecting small exposures
of uncommon phases is demonstrated with new geologic discoveries near
the Mars-2020 rover landing site. Akaganeite is found in sediments on
the Jezero crater floor and in fluvial deposits at NE Syrtis. Jarosite
and silica are found on the Jezero crater floor while chlorite-smectite
and Al phyllosilicates are found in the Jezero crater walls. These
detections point to a multi-stage, multi-chemistry history of water in
Jezero crater and the surrounding region and provide new information for
guiding the Mars-2020 rover’s landed exploration. In particular, the
akaganeite, silica, and jarosite in the floor deposits suggest either a
later episode of salty, Fe-rich waters that post-date the Jezero crater
delta or groundwater alteration of portions of the Jezero crater
sedimentary sequence.