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New Study Reveals Active Martian Geology Through Carbon Dioxide Ice

10/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Utrecht University researchers find carbon dioxide ice blocks carve gullies on Mars as dry ice sublimates and slides down dunes.
The study, published in Geophysical Research Letters, shows these burrowing-like processes create sinuous channels, challenging assumptions about Martian geology.
The findings indicate Mars remains geologically active, with seasonal temperature and pressure changes continuing to modify its surface and inform ideas about other icy worlds and life.

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Story summary

Utrecht University researchers find carbon dioxide ice blocks carve gullies on Mars as dry ice sublimates and slides down dunes.
The study, published in Geophysical Research Letters, shows these burrowing-like processes create sinuous channels, challenging assumptions about Martian geology.
The findings indicate Mars remains geologically active, with seasonal temperature and pressure changes continuing to modify its surface and inform ideas about other icy worlds and life.