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Mars Express Images 3.5-Billion-Year Flood-Carved Shalbatana Vallis

5/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

DLR, operating ESA’s Mars Express, captured a high-resolution image of Shalbatana Vallis.
The valley spans about 1,300 km, with a main channel ~10 km wide and 500 m deep.
Scientists date its formation to 3.5 billion years ago from massive groundwater floods that cut the rock.
Later melted ice caused chaotic collapse of the terrain.
The image shows smooth lava-filled areas, ridges, and impact craters coated with ash.

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Story summary

DLR, operating ESA’s Mars Express, captured a high-resolution image of Shalbatana Vallis.
The valley spans about 1,300 km, with a main channel ~10 km wide and 500 m deep.
Scientists date its formation to 3.5 billion years ago from massive groundwater floods that cut the rock.
Later melted ice caused chaotic collapse of the terrain.
The image shows smooth lava-filled areas, ridges, and impact craters coated with ash.