The European Space Agency (ESA) has discovered a fresh Martian impact crater linked to a recent seismic event. The crater, located in the Cerberus Fossae region, was detected by NASA’s InSight spacecraft and revealed a 21-m diameter impact site.
Researchers from the ESA used artificial intelligence to analyze data collected by five different instruments orbiting Mars, including the agency’s own CaSSIS camera on the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter. The analysis revealed that seismic events previously thought to be caused by tectonic activity could actually be caused by meteor strikes.
The discovery provides new insights into the Martian interior and how different types of vibrations travel through the planet at different depths and speeds. Researchers believe that waves travel faster and deeper through the planet than previously thought, which has implications for future Mars missions.
ESA’s space safety programme is working to develop a planetary defence capability to mitigate and prevent impacts from space. The agency’s ExoMars mission aims to understand the history of water on Mars and whether it once allowed life to flourish.
TGO continues to image Mars from orbit, providing stunning images and data on atmospheric gases, surface mapping, and water-rich locations. The spacecraft captured a false-colour image of the impact crater on November 3, 2023, which is available for download.
The discovery highlights the importance of continued exploration and research into our nearest neighbour. By studying Martian seismic events and impacts, scientists can gain valuable insights into the planet’s history and potential habitability.
Source: https://www.esa.int/ESA_Multimedia/Images/2025/02/KA-BOOM