Equatorial Layered Deposits in Arabia Terra, Mars: Stratigraphy and Process Variability

The equatorial layered deposits of Arabia Terra are investigated to understand their genesis and the controls on their evolution. We interpret the deposits found within the craters as having been formed by spring deposition based on the large-scale geometry, the presence of morphologies consistent with fluid expulsion, the composition, and the sedimentary structures. Outside of the craters, we found evidence of dune forms and cross-stratification suggestive of aeolian activity, possibly associated with playa deposition. Groundwater fluctuations are suggested as the control on deposition