ISPRS 2004 Geomorphometric Mapping of Grand Canyon from the 1-Degree USGS DEMs

In a previous research effort a terrain partition framework was defined allowing the partition of the landscape of Valles Marineris chasma (an elongated steep-sided depression located in Mars) to elementary objects. Each object was parametrically represented on the basis of its spatial 3-dimensional arrangement and mapped according to a terrain classification scheme. In the current research effort Grand Canyon is delineated from the one degree USGS DEMs and various geomorphometric parameters are computed in an attempt to capture the geomorphometric signature of the largest canyon in earth. More specifically, the landscape was described on the basis of the statistical parameters computed for elevation and gradient, histogram frequency distributions and rose diagrams. The geomorphometric comparison indicates that Valles Marineris is a steeper terrain with higher relief variability. The rectilinear mountain fronts are a key indicator of the tectonic forces that shape the terrain of Valles Marineris chasma. The terrain of Grand Canyon is developed parallel to fluvial process direction while in Valles Marineris the terrain flows vertically to the mountain fronts. Thus, the key factor controlling the development of the landscape in Grand Canyon is fluvial process versus tectonism in Valles Marineris. Valles Marineris is less massive than Grand Canyon but this is due to the much greater elevation range observed (12 km versus 2.5 km).

Mimetype

application/pdf

Filename

ISPRS04_1812_N_Kokkas.pdf

Publisher

ISPRS

Author

Nick Kokkas

Originator

N. A. Kokkas, G. Miliaresis

Group

Astrogeology

Added to Astropedia

14 May 2012

Modified

9 July 2013

General

Geospatial Data Presentation Form

Document

Keywords

System

Mars

Target

Mars

Theme

Remote Sensing, Geographic Information System (GIS)

Geospatial Information

Quad Name