[Phil V.]

What is interesting about these images when viewed in 3D is how they resemble "frost heave" soil. The soil is "stacked" so to speak . . . vertical "mini towers". Something is binding the particles together.

Inviting input from freepdom (or freepdumb) . . .

[Axenolith]

It appears that the soil in the sunlit portion is more smooth, or "deflated". That would bolster the frost heave theory, as the heaving material would probably sublimate (whether CO2 or H2O) and dissappear upon lighting and IR absorption and they lander shaded area would hold together for longer. Now, under that theory, it would simplify things if there is a subterreanian (and possibly renewable) source for the fluids to wick upward under cappilary action during warm periods.

That, BTW, would also create a nutrient and salt transport mechanism in the subsurface for any critters that might make the soil column home. The only downside is, unless they cycle dormant near surface with seasons or days, they would be below the frost depth, which is probably below the landers drilling\scooping capability.

[WorkingClassFilth]

It has been a long time since I had any soils classes, but isn't it possible that charged particles, like Bentonite clay, could produce structure like that in the photos? Aeolean (wind) erosion might have an effect due to varied density in the particle composition. Mars has a very thing atmosphere and may admit a very high number of 'micro' meteors with substantial velocity - could this kind of impact create a texture like that seen? As a kid, I collected some meteors over the course of a week in a bedsheet left outside and then combed with a magnet and the number was quite suprising. I don't know - just spinning wool...

[quietolong]

bump so I can find those 3d glasses

[from occupied ga]

WOW! DIRT!