The satellite of Mars is destroyed: its surface is covered with "stretch marks" from gravity

An international team of researchers has presented the results of an analysis that explains the origin

mysterious grooves on the surface of Phobos.They believe that this is an external manifestation of internal canyons formed during the process of stretching and deformation of the surface. It is associated with the destruction of the satellite under the influence of tidal forces.

Phobos is the closest of the two moons of Mars.This is a massive stone body with a diameter of about 22 km. On the surface of Phobos, you can see an unusual pattern of parallel lines. This formation was discovered during the study of the satellite by NASA's Viking mission in the 70s, but for a long time baffled scientists.

Computer simulation of the surface deformation of Mars. Animation: Bin Cheng et al., The Planetary Science Journal

The researchers used condition modelingon Phobos using a supercomputer. In their model, the scientists suggested that loose dust lies on the surface of the satellite, which covers a deeper layer of slightly more cohesive material. According to scientists, deep cracks can form in this inner layer. In this case, loose materials from the surface will crumble into the formed cracks and form quarries on the surface.

Planetologists presented in the simulationthe upper 150 m of the surface of Phobos in the form of two rectangular piles, consisting of 3 million grains, with the uppermost 50 m being very loose, and the deeper grains having little cohesion. They then analyzed how the surface would deform under the action of tidal forces.

Gradual evolution of furrows on the surface of the satellite. Image: Bin Cheng et al., The Planetary Science Journal

The results of the study showed that the obtainedthe structures bear a striking resemblance in size, location, and orientation to many of the grooves seen at mid-latitudes on Phobos. In particular, the model built the same parallel patterns and dimples that are seen in abundance on the satellite's surface.

Phobos is located only 6 thousand km from Mars.Due to this proximity, tidal forces cause it to spiral at a rate of about 2 m per 100 years. According to scientists, in about 40 million years, the satellite will crash into the planet.

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