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This study presents a comprehensive assessment of the geomorphology, crater distributions, and tectonic structures within Enceladus' cratered terrains. We analyzed the distributions of impact craters and tectonic structures in seven regions of interest to inform an interpretation of the geological history of this terrain in the context of Enceladus' global evolution. We found that the tectonic structures, including both ancient, subdued troughs and young, narrow fractures, point to a cratered terrain that not only experienced early tectonic modification but also shows evidence of recent geological activity. Ancient troughs present in the equatorial cratered terrains are similar in scale and orientation to troughs present in the Leading and Trailing Hemisphere Terrains, an observation that supports possible non‐synchronous rotation of the ice shell. A dearth of impact craters in the equatorial regions as identified previously does not hold for craters <3 km in diameter in the anti‐Saturnian hemisphere. The anomalous presence of excess small craters in this region could be due to secondary or sesquinary impacts from a catastrophic event occurring at Enceladus or a neighboring moon. Finally, narrow fractures are pervasive across the cratered terrains and are most commonly oriented parallel or sub‐parallel to the most proximal cratered terrain boundary. This directionality of pervasive recent fracturing could be related to the vertical movement of an isostatically uncompensated ice shell. Enceladus' cratered terrains provide insight into the long‐term evolution of the satellite, an important component to assessing its role in Solar System evolution and its potential for habitability. Plain Language Summary: We present a comprehensive characterization of the oldest terrain on Enceladus, the cratered terrains. We evaluated structural features and impact craters on the surface, including their morphology and spatial distributions. This analysis informs how we interpret the formation and change of these surface features in the context of how Enceladus as a whole has changed over time. We found that there are two main types of tectonic structures in the cratered terrains, including one set of relatively old troughs and at least one set of narrow fractures that is very young. This finding indicates that not only have the cratered terrains experienced early tectonic activity, but were also active recently. The ancient set of troughs are similar to those present in younger terrains on Enceladus, suggesting that the ice shell has rotated relative to its tidally locked position about Saturn. The comparatively young, narrow fractures in the cratered terrains are widespread and could have formed due to a vertically shifting ice shell. Enceladus' cratered terrains provide insight into what long‐term changes have taken place on the surface, an important component to understanding how Enceladus fits into Solar System formation and its past or present potential to host life. Key Points: Systematic review of Enceladus' cratered terrains results in a stratigraphic framework for geologic mapping and age determinationTroughs in the equatorial cratered terrains are similar to tectonized equatorial regions, suggesting non‐synchronous ice shell rotationAncient, subdued troughs and young, narrow fractures point to a cratered terrain that experienced both early and recent tectonic activity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The northwest-trending Altai Mountains of central Asia expose a complex network of thrust and strike-slip faults that are key features accommodating intracontinental crustal shortening related to the Cenozoic India-Asia collision. In this study, we investigated the Quaternary slip history of the Fuyun fault, a right-lateral strike-slip fault bounding the southwestern margin of the Altai Mountains, through geologic mapping, geomorphic surveying, and optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) geochronology. At the Kuoyibagaer site, the Fuyun fault displaces three generations of Pleistocene– Holocene fill-cut river terraces (i.e., T3, T2, and T1) containing landslide and debris-flow deposits. The right-lateral offsets are magnified by erosion of terrace risers, suggesting that river course migration has been faster than slip along the Fuyun fault. The highest Tp2 terrace was abandoned in the middle Pleistocene (150.4 ± 8.1 ka uppermost OSL age) and was displaced 145.5 +45.6/–12.1 m along the Fuyun fault, yielding a slip rate of 1.0 +0.4/–0.1 mm/yr since the middle Pleistocene. The lower Tp1 terrace was abandoned in the late Pleistocene and aggraded by landslides and debris flows in the latest Pleistocene–Holocene (36.7 ± 1.6 ka uppermost OSL age). Tp1 was displaced 67.5 +14.2/–6.1 m along the Fuyun fault, yielding a slip rate of 1.8 +0.5/–0.2 mm/yr since the late Pleistocene. Our preferred minimum slip rate of ~1 mm/yr suggests the Fuyun fault accommodates ~16% of the average geodetic velocity of ~6 mm/yr across the Altai Mountains. Integration of our new Fuyun slip rate with other published fault slip rates accounts for ~4.2 mm/yr of convergence across the Chinese Altai, or ~70% of the geodetic velocity field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the development of a proposed mapping system called Process-Landform-Material (PLM) for engineering geology field mapping. The PLM system aims to provide consistent and objective information for mapping purposes related to Earth-related hazards, geotechnical materials, and ground responses. It incorporates modifications to a previously published system and includes categories for surficial deposits, underlying materials, and various process and landform types. The PLM system is flexible and can be expanded to accommodate specific user needs. [Extracted from the article]

Kerinci Regency is located on the western to the southwestern part of the capital city of Jambi Province, Indonesia. It has interesting geomorphological sites consisting of the physiography of the Barisan Mountain Zone associated with the Sumatran Fault System known as a volcanic-tectonic complex. Geomorphology has an important role in providing information of the landscape in an area. This paper aims to determine the geomorphological characteristics of the area which can provide information regarding disaster mitigation, the direction of land-use innovation, and infrastructure development strategies. This research uses analyses of morphographic, morphometric, morphogenetic, morphoconservation, and morphochronological aspects. Analysis of satellite images and topographic contours is a method used to determine the characteristics of drainage patterns and geological mapping. A significant result of this research is a geomorphological map of Kerinci that divides the area into several geomorphological units, namely volcanic-denudational, karst, structural, volcanic-structural, structural-denudational, and fluvial morphologies. Based on the geomorphological map, the area has a very high potential hazard consisting of volcanic structural landforms, which are Tanco Isolated Hill (TIH), Kerinci Fault Escarpment Undulation (KFEU), Kerinci Fault Escarpment Volcanic Undulation (KFEVU), structural landforms (Alang Structural Valley (ASV), Kumun Fault Hills (KFH), and Pengasih Fault Undulation (PGFU)). This map can be used to design the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for regional development in Kerinci. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geological maps of Earth typically incorporate field observations of rock lithology, structure, composition, and more. In contrast, conventional planetary geological maps are often made using primarily qualitative morphostratigraphic remote sensing observations of planetary surfaces. However, it is possible to define independent quantitative spectral units (SUs) of planetary surfaces, which potentially contain information about surface composition, grain size, and space weathering exposure. Here, we demonstrate a generic method to combine independently derived geomorphic and SUs, using the Rachmaninoff basin, Mercury, as an example to create a new geostratigraphic map. From this geostratigraphic map, we can infer some compositional differences within geomorphic units, which clarifies and elaborates on the geological evolution of the region. Plain Language Summary: Geological maps of rocks on Earth include information about what landforms the rocks exhibit, what they are made from, their orientation, and more. Many such details require ground observations, but these are generally not available for planetary geological maps, which rely on spacecraft data. Spacecraft images can be used to map planetary surface textures (geomorphology), but they can also be used to measure surfaces' responses to light (reflectance or emission spectra), which contain information about what the surface rocks are made from, their physical properties (e.g., grain size, roughness, porosity), and how long they have been exposed at the surface. We have combined earlier, independent geomorphic and spectral maps of the Rachmaninoff impact basin on Mercury to create a new "geostratigraphic" map that is more like a geological map that could be made of Earth. The new map highlights places that in the original geomorphic map would have been mapped all as a single unit, but are divisible based on spectral variations, attributable to differences in what the rocks are made from. This allows us to reconstruct a more detailed geological history of the region. Our method can be applied to other regions on Mercury and to other planetary surfaces. Key Points: We combine independent morphostratigraphic and spectral units of Rachmaninoff basin to create geostratigraphic unitsGeostratigraphic units can distinguish volcanic plains and impact melt in contact with each otherGeostratigraphic units imply a wider distribution of (LRM‐composition) impact melt than previously recognized [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this work is to deduce the geologic setting of the San Leo cliff from the natural sections exposed in its own rock walls. The line-drawings of the rock walls, coupled with a detailed geologic map and framed in a tectonostratigraphic scheme, allow us to reconstruct a 3D geological model of the San Leo cliff. The interpretation of the collected data also allows us to establish the relationships between lithostratigraphy, tectonics and geomorphology that control the evolution of this spectacular and delicate landscape emergency of Val Marecchia. The 2014 landslide (BORGATTI et alii, 2015) has been only the latest event in the evolution of the San Leo cliff, where fractures and faults of Late Pliocene to Present age have predisposed rock masses to fall, so that the current slope morphology is the result of a very long series of rockfalls (BENEDETTI et alii, 2011). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is an editorial from the Journal of Maps, discussing the importance of community support and collaboration within the academic community. The editor announces the winner of the 2023 Best Map Competition, which was awarded to a team for their Geological Map of South America in Google Earth. The document also provides a summary of the journal's productivity in 2023, with 133 articles published. The Impact Factor slightly dropped to 2.2 but is still higher than the previous year. The number of downloads for articles in open access journals increased by nearly 10% to 458,576. The top five cited and downloaded articles are listed, with the Best Map prizewinner receiving 10,177 downloads. The author expresses gratitude to the academic community, authors, reviewers, and editorial board members for their contributions to the journal. Additionally, the document is a list of references for various articles published in the Journal of Maps, covering topics such as geological mapping, geospatial analysis, geomorphology, and cartography. The authors are affiliated with universities and research institutions from around the world. The articles are available under an Open Access license, allowing for non-commercial use and distribution. [Extracted from the article]

Copyright of Türkiye Jeoloji Bülteni is the property of TMMOB JEOLOJI MUHENDISLERI ODASI and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

ABSTRACTGeological maps of tropical areas demand special challenges due to weathering conditions, mainly where relief has low variability. Most part of Paraná Magmatic Province is included in this scenario. An exception to this situation is the southeastern portion of the province, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The stratigraphic disposition of volcanic units and the characteristics of erosion of each one caused the exposition of four identified plateaus, in which outcrop, from bottom to top: (1) basalts from Torres/Vale do Sol formations; (2) Caxias do Sul dacite; (3) Barros Cassal sequence; (4) Santa Maria rhyolite. The contacts were traced using SRTM images (through altitude and slope maps), integrating previously published semi- to detailed maps and geochemical database from our group. The resulting map (1:250,000) contributes to the volcano-stratigraphic knowledge of this huge province, and allows us to suggest the review of silicic units, initially called Palmas Formation.

ABSTRACTGeological and geomorphological field surveys and mapping have been carried out in the Folafótur peninsula (Westfjords, Iceland), a remote territory characterized by spectacular landscapes resulting from the interaction of volcanic, tectonic, and glacial processes. The Geological and Geomorphological Map of the Folafótur Peninsula (1:10,000 scale) is the first detailed map showing the relationships between geology and landscapes in the Westfjords of Iceland. The map also highlights the main geodiversity and cultural sites, which together make up the overall value of the geoheritage of the study area, illustrating Earth’s geodynamics and geomorphological processes related to climate changes and their connections with human history. Our research contributes to the understanding of the geodiversity of the Folafótur peninsula, providing for the first time a description of geological and geomorphological characteristics of this area, crucial for the assessment of its geoheritage.

A dataset to describe exposed bedrock and surficial geology of Antarctica has been constructed by the GeoMAP Action Group of the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR) and GNS Science. Our group captured existing geological map data into a geographic information system (GIS), refined its spatial reliability, harmonised classification, and improved representation of glacial sequences and geomorphology, thereby creating a comprehensive and coherent representation of Antarctic geology. A total of 99,080 polygons were unified for depicting geology at 1:250,000 scale, but locally there are some areas with higher spatial resolution. Geological unit definition is based on a mixed chronostratigraphic- and lithostratigraphic-based classification. Description of rock and moraine polygons employs the international Geoscience Markup Language (GeoSciML) data protocols to provide attribute-rich and queryable information, including bibliographic links to 589 source maps and scientific literature. GeoMAP is the first detailed geological map dataset covering all of Antarctica. It depicts 'known geology' of rock exposures rather than 'interpreted' sub-ice features and is suitable for continent-wide perspectives and cross-discipline interrogation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geological and geomorphological field surveys and mapping have been carried out in the Folafótur peninsula (Westfjords, Iceland), a remote territory characterized by spectacular landscapes resulting from the interaction of volcanic, tectonic, and glacial processes. The Geological and Geomorphological Map of the Folafótur Peninsula (1:10,000 scale) is the first detailed map showing the relationships between geology and landscapes in the Westfjords of Iceland. The map also highlights the main geodiversity and cultural sites, which together make up the overall value of the geoheritage of the study area, illustrating Earth’s geodynamics and geomorphological processes related to climate changes and their connections with human history. Our research contributes to the understanding of the geodiversity of the Folafótur peninsula, providing for the first time a description of geological and geomorphological characteristics of this area, crucial for the assessment of its geoheritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geological maps of tropical areas demand special challenges due to weathering conditions, mainly where relief has low variability. Most part of Paraná Magmatic Province is included in this scenario. An exception to this situation is the southeastern portion of the province, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The stratigraphic disposition of volcanic units and the characteristics of erosion of each one caused the exposition of four identified plateaus, in which outcrop, from bottom to top: (1) basalts from Torres/Vale do Sol formations; (2) Caxias do Sul dacite; (3) Barros Cassal sequence; (4) Santa Maria rhyolite. The contacts were traced using SRTM images (through altitude and slope maps), integrating previously published semi- to detailed maps and geochemical database from our group. The resulting map (1:250,000) contributes to the volcano-stratigraphic knowledge of this huge province, and allows us to suggest the review of silicic units, initially called Palmas Formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 7 June 2021, Juno crossed the orbital path of Jupiter's moon Ganymede, flying within 1,046 km of the surface. Juno's low‐light‐sensitive Stellar Reference Unit (SRU) navigation camera captured an image of the satellite's dark side in a region of Xibalba Sulcus illuminated solely by Jupiter‐shine. Collected at high incidence angle with 670–920 m/pixel resolution, the image reveals terrain morphology, ejecta, and numerous small craters that cannot be discerned in the Voyager imagery used for the USGS global geologic map of Ganymede. The Juno data enable improved mapping of Ganymede's surface and reinterpretation of material and crater ages in a region previously characterized as light "undivided" material due to poor image resolution. The illumination conditions achieved by the SRU observation geometry also reveal the detailed morphology of a 270‐km elongated bright feature in this area. These newly resolved features contribute to an improved understanding of Ganymede's complex history. Plain Language Summary: On 7 June 2021, the Juno spacecraft flew within about 1,000 km of the surface of Jupiter's largest moon, Ganymede. The Mission used their sensitive navigation camera to photograph the moon's dark side where it was lit only by scattered sunlight from Jupiter. This new imaging approach revealed multiple surface features, including a patchwork of different surface textures (such as grooved terrain), several craters, and ejecta deposits. These features had not been visible in images collected by previous spacecraft. Well‐resolved details of the surface structure help us understand Ganymede's history and the processes responsible for how it appears today. One feature may either be ejecta from a very distant crater or scars from the pieces of a broken up comet that collided with Ganymede. Key Points: Juno's Stellar Reference Unit imaged Ganymede at high resolution and incidence angle while the surface was illuminated by Jupiter‐shineGrooved material, ejecta, and multiple craters are now resolved, enabling improved mapping of a 2 × 105 km2 region in Xibalba SulcusThe unique morphology of a possible 270‐km scar from comet fragments, or a highly isolated distal ray from Tros, is revealed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geological mapping, stratigraphic observations, and U/Pb dating allow reconstructing the pre-orogenic setting of the transition zone between the distal European passive margin and the Alpine Tethys in the southwestern Alps. Although convergent tectonics overprinted the syn-rift Jurassic tectonic features, our data document an articulated Jurassic physiography. From the distal European passive margin oceanward, we distinguished: the Dronero Unit (the southernmost Dora Maira massif), represents a continental margin composite basement wherein monometamorphic metasediments are interlayered with Late Permian (253.8 ± 2.7 Ma) metavolcanic rocks; the Sampeyre Unit, represents a structural high consisting of Lower Triassic Verrucano-facies siliciclastic metasediments unconformably sealed by Cretaceous calcschist bearing Globotruncana sp.; the Maira Unit, corresponds to a Middle Triassic platform succession detached from the Sampeyre Unit; the Grana Unit, corresponds to a Late Triassic–Late Jurassic platform to basin succession; the Queyras Schistes Lustrès Complex, represents the ocean basin succession. Tectonic slices of Cambrian (513.9 ± 2.7 Ma) metadiorite hosted in the Valmala Shear Zone, separating the Dronero Unit from the underlying (U)HP units of the Dora Maira massif, suggests a potential pre-Alpine activation of the shear zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seismic reflection utilizes sound waves transmitted into the subsurface, reflected at rock boundaries, and recorded at the surface. Interpretation of their travel times and amplitudes are the key for reconstructing various geomorphological features across geological time (e.g., reefs, dunes, and channels). Furthermore, the integration of surface geomorphology technique mapping, such as digital elevation models, with seismic geomorphology can increase land and marine feature modelling and reduce data uncertainty, as well. This paper presents an overview of seismic and surface geomorphology techniques and proposes an integrated workflow for better geological mapping, 3D surface imaging, and reconstruction. We intend to identify which techniques are more often used and which approaches are more appropriate for better output results. We noticed that an integration of surface and subsurface geomorphology techniques could be beneficial for society in landscape mapping, reservoir characterization, and city/regional planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The volcanic history of many of the western Central Andes volcanoes, including Hualca Hualca in the northern Ampato Volcanic Complex, remains poorly constrained. Based on an updated 1:50,000-scale geological map, new cross-sections of the Ampato Complex, a compilation of published dates, new geochemical data and 40Ar/39Ar ages, we present new insights into its volcanic evolution. Our study identifies 7 principal geological units (4 were not reported on the previous geologic map) and 8, mostly constructive, volcanic phases. The 40Ar/39Ar dating supports that Hualca Hualca began its formation during the Early Pleistocene (>1.6 Ma) with the establishment of an ancient stratovolcano. This volcano underwent a massive sector collapse to the north that created a U-shaped large amphitheater. This collapse likely resulted in the temporary damming of the Colca River, though no dates or associated deposits have been identified. Subsequent eruptions led to the formation of a smaller volcano along the amphitheater's scar that emplaced andesitic and dacitic lavas. This volcano dubbed modern Hualca Hualca holds the main summit. One of the longest lavas of this edifice reach the Colca valley and was previously dated at 610 ka. Sometime around 550 ka, volcanic activity migrated to the interior of the amphitheater forming the Nevado de Puye, Cruz del Condor, and Ahuashune domes that produced lavas of andesitic and dacitic composition. Around 164 ka a dacitic lava flow was emitted between Nevado del Puye and the base of the modern Hualca Hualca inside the horseshoe crater. The youngest known collapse of the Hualca Hualca complex involved parts of Nevado de Puye dome and the modern Hualca Hualca volcano, emplacing a debris avalanche that again dammed the Colca River and formed an upstream temporary lake that emplaced lacustrine and volcaniclastic deposits. After this collapse, no other volcanic deposit of the Hualca Hualca complex has been identified. Subsequently, glacial erosion during the local Last Glacial Maximum (17–16 ka) modified the volcanic landscape. Geochemical characteristics of Hualca Hualca suggest that their magmas were produced in a metasomatized mantle wedge and likely underwent crustal contamination during their ascent through the thick continental crust. • A new geological map and geomorphological analysis allowed to improve the volcanic history of Hualca Hualca volcano. • New 40Ar-39Ar ages provide new insights into the late Pleistocene evolution of the volcano. • Geochemical characteristics of the rocks of Hualca Hualca are very similar to Ampato and Sabancaya stratovolcanoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied the Gioia Sannitica active normal fault (GF) along the southern Matese fault (SMF) system in the southern Apennines of Italy in detail. The current activity of the fault system and its potential to produce strong earthquakes have been underestimated so far and are now defined here. Precise mapping of the GF fault trace on a 1:20000 geological map and point and line data on the geometry, kinematics, and slip rate of the faults forming the SMF system are made available in electronic format. The GF, and the entire fault system along the southern Matese mountain front in general, is made of slowly slipping faults with a long active history revealed by the large geologic offsets, mature geomorphology, and complex fault patterns and kinematics. Present activity has resulted in late Quaternary fault scarps resurrecting the foot of the mountain front and Holocene surface faulting. The resurrected mountain front indicates variation in slip rate through time. The slip rate varies along-strike, with a maximum Upper Pleistocene–Holocene slip rate of ∼ 0.5 mmyr-1. Activation of the 11.5 km long GF can produce up to M 6.2 earthquakes. If activated together with the 18.5 km long Ailano–Piedimonte Matese fault (APMF), the seismogenic potential would be M 6.8. The slip history of the two faults is compatible with a contemporaneous rupture. The observed Holocene displacements on the GF and APMF are compatible with activations during some poorly constrained historical earthquakes, such as the 1293 (M 5.8), 1349 (M 6.8; possibly a southern prolongation of the rupture on the Aquae Iuliae fault), and 346 CE earthquakes. A fault rupture during the poorly constrained 847 CE earthquake is also chronologically compatible with the dated displacements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interdisciplinary study has been adopted to investigate the upper Maira Valley (Western Alps, Italy). A geological map of an unmapped area, of about 12 km2, at scale 1:10.000, has been realized. The combination of field surveys, GIS database creation, aerial photo observation, local archival data consultation, geo-structural analysis and drillholes re-interpretation outlined a relationship between structures and landforms. A ductile and brittle deformation history with the definition of four discontinuity systems (F1-F4) has been detected. Where the fracturation is intense, rock-falls and topplings are triggered. In area associated with a homogeneous presence of weathered cover, debris flows were identified. The geo-structural pattern obtained from the surveys in the upper Maira Valley allowed characterizing detachment zones of the slope overlooking Acceglio town. The Gollone Landslide is an excellent case study to unravel the structural-morphological interaction and the kinematic evolution due to its framework.

The current geomorphology of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau area is studied, and the plate movement and future geomorphology of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau are predicted to further promote the development of geological research in China. Firstly, the wide application of the Global Positioning System (GPS) and its role in geology are explained. Secondly, GPS observations on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and its surrounding areas are studied, high-precision GPS observation data are processed, and the observation result data are analyzed and screened. Finally, the qualitative and quantitative research results are obtained for the changes in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The research results show that the use of geomorphological surveying and mapping research based on the GPS can accurately understand the geomorphic features and geomorphic changes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, and accurately understand the horizontal and vertical geomorphic deformations of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The research results show that GPS can effectively survey and map the geomorphology of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, which provides new perspectives and new methods for geomorphological surveying and geological research and guarantees China's further research on the influence of plate movement on the terrain and sets an example for future related research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We used imaging, laser altimeter and thermal infrared data to map a 0.5 by 0.5° area containing the landing site of the Zhurong rover of the Tianwen‐1 mission. We analyzed the regional topography and thermophysical characteristics, and identified and characterized cones, impact craters, polygonal troughs, ridges and aeolian bedforms. An absolute model age of 757 ± 66 Ma was obtained for the major unit dominating the study area, younger than previous geological mapping results. We propose several targets of high scientific interest for Zhurong and a stratigraphic model composed of five layers (from bottom to top: Noachian basement, Early Hesperian volcanic ridged plains, Vastitas Borealis Formation materials, rocky materials and loose materials). The geomorphic features identified, the proposed stratigraphy and the regional geological evolution scenario set the stage for the Zhurong rover to continue to carry out its exploration of Mars. Plain Language Summary: Tianwen‐1 is China's first independent Mars mission. It consists of an orbiter and a lander and a rover (Zhurong). The Zhurong rover successfully touched down on the surface of Mars on May 15, 2021. The landing site lies in southern Utopia Planitia, in the northern lowlands of Mars. We identified various geomorphologic features within an area of 0.5 by 0.5° centered around the landing site of the Zhurong rover using image, elevation and temperature remote sensing data. We propose a history and geological evolution of the region to set the stage for the Zhurong rover exploration and analysis. Key Points: We conducted detailed geological mapping of the Zhurong landing region on MarsHigh scientific interest targets for Zhurong rover including cones, pitted‐wall craters, aeolian bedforms, polygons, and ridges are proposedA middle Amazonian surface age is suggested and a five‐layer stratigraphic model of the Zhurong landing region is proposed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geologic maps are foundational products for natural hazard assessments but developing them for submarine areas is challenging due to a lack of physical access to the study area. In response, submarine geomorphologic maps are used to provide geologic context and spatial information on landforms and related geo-hazards for risk management. These maps are generated from remotely sensed data, e.g. digital elevation models (DEMs), which introduce unique hurdles to submarine mapping. To address this issue, we produced a workflow for applying planetary geologic mapping methods to submarine data. Using this, we created an onshore-offshore geomorphologic map of the Christiana-Santorini-Kolumbo Volcanic Group, Greece. This product can be used to enhance hazard assessments on Santorini, which is a tourist hot-spot at high risk for volcanically- and seismically-induced hazards. We present this workflow as a tool for generating uniform geomorphologic map products that will aid natural hazard assessments of submarine environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Iraqi Bulletin of Geology & Mining is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

We studied in detail the Gioia Sannitica active normal fault (GF) along the Southern Matese Fault system in the southern Apennines of Italy. The current activity of the fault system and its potential to produce strong earthquakes have been underestimated so far, and are now defined. Precise mapping of the GF fault trace on a 1:20,000 geological map and several point data on geometry, kinematics and throw rate are made available in electronic format. The GF, and in general the entire fault system along the southern Matese mountain front, is made of slowly-slipping faults, with a long active history revealed by the large geologic offsets, mature geomorphology, and complex fault pattern and kinematics. Present activity has resulted in Late Quaternary fault scarps resurrecting the foot of the mountain front, and Holocene surface faulting. The slip rate varies along-strike, with maximum Late Pleistocene – Holocene throw rate of ~0.5 mm/yr. Activation of the 11.5 km-long GF can produce up to M 6.1 earthquakes. If activated together with the 18 km-long Ailano-Piedimonte Matese fault (APMF), the seismogenic potential would be M 6.8. The slip history of the two faults is compatible with a contemporaneous rupture. The observed Holocene displacements on the GF and APMF are compatible with activations during some poorly known historical earthquakes, such as the 1293 (M 5.8), 1349 (M 6.8; southern prolongation of the rupture on the Aquae Iuliae fault?) and CE 346 earthquakes. A fault rupture during the 847 poorly-constrained historical earthquake is also compatible with the dated displacements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Rivoli-Avigliana end moraine system (Italian Western Alps) hosts an important stratigraphic archive of Pleistocene glaciations. A new geological map provides a 3D architecture of the system that reveals a complex architecture of glacial, alluvial and lacustrine units. Six glacial units were recognized. During the deposition of the four older glacial units (Early-Middle Pleistocene) the morphology of the valley outlet had a different drainage pattern from the present, with the presence of large lakes. From the penultimate glaciation to the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) the piedmont lobe was confined within the valley, never extending towards the alluvial Po Plain. The LGM is characterized by two glacial advances and four distinct recessional phases during the Lateglacial. The presence of a bedrock inselberg affected the flow of the glacier front, which should have had weak erosive strength as shown by the preservation of lacustrine deposits below the glacial units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterising youthful strike‐slip fault systems within transtensional regimes is often complicated by the presence of tectonic geomorphic features produced by normal faulting associated with oblique extension. The Petersen Mountain fault in the northern Walker Lane tectonic province exhibits evidence of both normal and strike‐slip faulting. We present the results of geologic and geomorphic mapping, and palaeoseismic trenching that characterise the fault's style and sense of deformation. The fault consists of two major traces. The western trace displaces colluvial, landslide, and middle to late Pleistocene alluvial fans and is associated with aligned range front saddles, linear drainages, and oversteepened range front slopes. The eastern trace is associated with a low linear bedrock ridge, a narrow graben, right deflected stream channels, and scarps in late Pleistocene alluvial fan deposits. A trench on the eastern trace of the fault exposed a clear juxtaposition of disintegrated granodiorite bedrock against sand and boulder alluvial fan deposits across a steeply east‐dipping fault. The stratigraphic evidence supports the occurrence of at least one late Pleistocene earthquake with a component of lateral displacement. As such, the Petersen Mountain fault accommodates part of the ~7 mm/yr of dextral shear distributed across the northern Walker Lane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interdisciplinary study has been adopted to investigate the upper Maira Valley (Western Alps, Italy). A geological map of an unmapped area, of about 12 km2, at scale 1:10.000, has been realized. The combination of field surveys, GIS database creation, aerial photo observation, local archival data consultation, geo-structural analysis and drillholes re-interpretation outlined a relationship between structures and landforms. A ductile and brittle deformation history with the definition of four discontinuity systems (F1-F4) has been detected. Where the fracturation is intense, rock-falls and topplings are triggered. In area associated with a homogeneous presence of weathered cover, debris flows were identified. The geo-structural pattern obtained from the surveys in the upper Maira Valley allowed characterizing detachment zones of the slope overlooking Acceglio town. The Gollone Landslide is an excellent case study to unravel the structural-morphological interaction and the kinematic evolution due to its framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The terraces of the Tárkány Basin, located in the SW part of the Bükk Mountains are known since the beginning of the 20th century. Based on field surveys, six morphological levels were delineated and described in 1936. During the later geological mapping surveys, three gravel terraces had been mapped in the basin. Since then, no comprehensive morphological mapping has been made in the Tárkány Basin. Our study aimed to validate the results of these early studies using a digital elevation model. We delineated the remnant surfaces of the basin by morphometric and GIS techniques. Then, based on field surveys and former geological maps; we characterised these remnant surfaces, and their area was measured as well. The aim of study is the comparison of the results of traditional and GIS based methods which contribute to a better understanding of the surface evolution of the basin and its surroundings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithology and geologic structure are important controls on landslide susceptibility and are incorporated into many regional landslide hazard models. Typically, metrics for mapped geologic units are used as model input variables and a single set of values for material strength are assumed, regardless of spatial heterogeneities that may exist within a map unit. Here we describe how differences in bedding thickness, grain size, inferred uniaxial compressive strength, and bedding dip control the inherent susceptibility of slopes to deep-seated failure within a single mapped geologic unit - the Tyee Formation of Oregon, USA. The Tyee, which covers over 15,000 km2 and underlies much of the Oregon Coast Range, comprises gently folded alternating beds of sandstone and siltstone deposited as turbidites, forming a 2-km thick Eocene submarine fan which has been uplifted and exhumed through the Cenozoic. Deep-seated landslides are widespread in the Tyee, but form a complex spatial pattern such that landslide density ranges from 0 to 24% of the total landscape area. These slides are often extensive and sufficiently deep to reduce local hillslope gradients, resulting in a strong negative correlation between landslide density and mean local slope. Mean annual precipitation and predicted strong ground motions from Cascadia earthquake scenarios also fail to explain the spatial distribution of deep-seated landslides. Consequently, landslide stability models, which are strongly influenced by landscape slope, pore-water pressure, and seismic acceleration, yield landslide susceptibility maps which are broadly anti-correlated with mapped deep-seated landslide density. Through a multivariable linear regression model, we show that much of the variance in deep-seated landslide density can be explained by variability of intra-unit stratigraphic and structural characteristics, which we measure at 128 sites across two study areas totaling ∼3000 km2. Our results suggest bedding dip is only weakly correlated to landslide density, but strongly influences landslide failure style. Subtle increases in bedding dip, even in the gently folded Tyee Formation, result in a substantially higher likelihood of a landslide being cataclinal, or parallel to bedding. Overall, we find a slight majority of landslides fail within these cataclinal slopes, and that these landslides tend to be larger than non-cataclinal landslides. We also show that the lithological and structural properties that influence landslide susceptibility are distinct for these two populations of landslides. Our results demonstrate how localized, intra-unit, geologic variability can exert strong control on landslide susceptibility and failure style. This suggests that in some locations, landslide hazard models could be significantly improved by incorporating detailed, spatially variable, geologic properties rather than relying solely on generalized geologic map units. • Deep landslides in western Oregon are not explained by slope, rainfall, or PGA. • Variability within a mapped geologic unit contributes to inherent susceptibility to failure. • Landslide failure style and orientation are sensitive to geologic structure. • Cataclinal and non-cataclinal slides have distinct inherent susceptibility controls. • Shallow and deep landslide domains exist within the same mapped geologic unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is focused on the geomorphological analysis of the Guatemala Trench, East Pacific Ocean. Research goal is to find geometric variations in western and eastern flanks of the trench and correlation of the submarine geomorphology with geologic settings and seismicity through numerical and graphical modelling. Methods include GMT based analysis of the bathymetry, geomorphic shape and surface trends in topography and gravity grids. Dataset contains raster grids on bathymetry, gravity, geoid and geological layers. Technical workflow is following: 1) Bathymetric mapping by modules ('grdcut', 'grdimage'); 2) Datasets visualizing and analysis, 3) Topographic and gravimetric surface modelling by ASCII data; 4) Cartographic mapping ('psbasemap', 'psxy', 'grdcontour') 4) 3D-mesh modelling; 5) Automatically digitized orthogonal cross-stacked profiles ('grdtrack'); 6) Visualizing curvature trends ('trend1d'); 7) statistical histograms. Results reveal unevenness in the structure of the submarine landforms. Modelling cross-section profiles highlighted depth variation at different parts of the transects and seafloor segments. Geomorphic structure has straight shape form of the slopes with steep oceanward forearc. Its geometry has steep and strait shape which correlates with seismicity. Depth samples vary: -3000 to -6200 m, seafloor is 3-5 km wide. Trench has symmetric accurate 'Vshaped' geometric form for the segment of -30 to -30 km. Oceanward side slope increases towards continental shelf, left flank stabilizes in depths at -50 km from the trench axis, deepens at -50 to 0 m, decreases at -3,200 to -5,800. Oceanward flank gradient varies: slope steepness of 35,63° at 0-20 km, 42,17° at 20-40 km, 44° at 40-60km. Left flank has 43,24° at 0-24 km, 28,33° at 24-40 km, 14° at 40-60 km, 1,13° at 60-200 km. Marine vertical gravity correlates with tectonic slab contours (20-30 mGal on the trench slopes). The study demonstrated effective GMT-based framework with a multi-disciplinary scope that combined cartographic methods of modelling deep-sea trench profiles with geological, bathymetric and geophysical analysis. Technical application of the advanced cartographic solutions and high quality mapping by GMT demonstrated its functionality for data analysis and effectiveness of the geoinformation processing. Proposed techniques and workflow methodology provided framework for geological mapping and can be applied in further similar research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By now, geomorphological assessment should have become an important component of engineering geological investigation and modelling and yet there are concerns that its use lacks clear guidance. As a result, and for reasons of unfamiliarity, geomorphological assessment can be either under-utilised or not utilised at all, sometimes with adverse engineering outcomes. Four case studies are described that provide illustration of the inclusion of geomorphological assessment a) within engineering geological modelling and b) directly within the sphere of engineering decision-making and design. The discussion focuses on how geomorphological assessment can be utilised to 1) assist in the planning of ground investigations and the interpretation of subsurface ground conditions for ground modelling purposes, 2) assess the geohazard posed by slope, fluvial and other processes and 3) consider the sensitivity of geomorphological systems (geo-systems) to change, thus providing some insight into how geohazard mechanisms, locations and intensities might change during the operational lifetime of engineering schemes. Outline procedures are proposed for the development of geomorphologically inclusive approaches to engineering geological modelling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present new data on canyons and other morphological features of the underwater slope on the eastern coast of the southern basin of Lake Baikal obtained during high-resolution bathymetric surveys of the bottom using multibeam echo-sounders ELAC SeaBeam 1050 and Kongsberg EM710S. Based on the array of bathymetric data generated, we have constructed a digital elevation model for which we used at once several software products responsible for individual tasks. Analysis of the digital elevation model has indicated that tectonic processes played the leading role in the creation of the main, most noticeable forms of relief on the underwater slope. These processes formed a graben-like depression to the south of the Posol'skaya Bank and tectogenic scarps at the foot of the southern slope of the depression as well as canyon-shaped valleys along the entire coast. We have determined that the unusual direction of the Posol'skii canyon across the coastal slope and the relatively small size of the fan in this canyon are due to the history of the tectonic development of this part of the shoreline: in the past, the canyon valley skirted the continental slope of the Selenga river paleodelta from the southeast, and after the formation of a younger graben-like depression it preserved the old direction of its channel. We have suggested that underwater erosion processes initiated tectonic lowering of the floor of the basin. Ultimately, this resulted in the destruction and erosion of the ancient geomorphological surfaces and formation of the ridge and hollow relief and canyon valleys that are currently at different stages of development. Landslide forms resulting from paleoseismic dislocations play a secondary, yet a significant role in the relief of the slope, which undoubtedly complicated the geomorphological surface. It is assumed that the fans created by the activities of the canyons, the ancient channels of canyons and landslide bodies may be promising for the search for hydrate-bearing structures in this part of the lake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The dwarf planet Ceres has been explored by NASA's Dawn spacecraft with the goal of characterizing its geology, mineralogy, topography, shape, and internal structure. One outcome of this exploration is the production of geologic maps, meant to unveil the geologic history of Ceres. In this paper, we present the geologic map of the Ac-6 Haulani quadrangle (Lat. 22°S-22°N, Long. 0°–72°E) based on Low Altitude Mapping Orbit (LAMO) (∼35 m/pixel) data supplemented with color and spectral data, as well as a digital terrain model from the High Altitude Mapping Orbit (HAMO) (∼135 m/pixel, vertical accuracy of about 10 m). The 34 km diameter Haulani crater is one of the youngest features on Ceres and the most prominent one in the quadrangle. Haulani was formed on a topographical transition in north–south direction and shows a complex morphology with a variety of lobate flows and tectonic features. Multiple cracks and depressions around the crater indicate the failure of subsurface material. These were likely formed by the subsidence of material due to the instability of the subsurface. The mapping of Ac-6 Haulani suggests that Ceres is built up of layers with different material properties. We propose that Ceres has a solid crust and a variable ice-rich subsurface consistent with previous and recent models of Ceres' interior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zarneh and Kergan are two limestone mountains of the Zagros mountain range located in Western Iran. High-volume lime and relatively heavy rainfall have provided a favorable condition for the development of karst features in the highlands of the Zagros mountains. The present study was carried out to detect karst features in the High Zagros Belt using satellite images. In this case, some aspects such as climate, structural criteria, and sub-criteria are affecting the formation of karst sinkholes and are identified in this study. The results indicate that karst features of sinkholes have originated from joints and faults which are caused by tectonic motions over time. In terms of spatial dispersion, the sinkholes are found at altitudes higher than 1900 m in Kargan and 2000 m in Zarneh. This proved the importance of altitudinal gradient, the role of moisture, and pleasant climatic conditions on the development of karst features in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a glacial geomorphological map relating to two rapidly receding glaciers in the Cordillera Darwin Icefield. The Marinelli marine-terminating glacier and Pigafetta freshwater-terminating glacier are selected to represent different glacial regimes producing different geomorphological records under similar climatic conditions. We combine mapping from satellite and aerial imagery with fieldwork, updating limited previous mapping. The map reveals two principal glacial landform assemblages: (1) a marine-terminating system, dominated by the formation of a large arcuate terminal morainic complex, glaciolacustrine landforms (shorelines) and extended ice-contact topography in the Fiordo Marinelli area; and (2) an assemblage of sequential frontal moraine ridges and outwash plains that formed when the former land-terminating Pigafetta glacier retreated from the Bahía Ainsworth area. Finally, the map is designed as a basis for future chronological campaigns and to enable a refined reconstruction of the glacial history of these two glaciers in a climatologically significant part of the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces a novel geoheritage map of the Portofino Natural Park. The park is an internationally well-known area, protected since 1935, located in the Ligurian Apennines, 25 km E of Genoa. It has 80 km of hiking trails which are used by visitors all year around. The map was produced by combining geological and geomorphological data, geoheritage elements and data from hiking and tourist maps. It is intended to be a base map from which can be derived applied maps. With appropriate integrations and simplifications, these can be useful tools for the management of highly frequented protected areas. The methodological approach involved aerial photo interpretation, bibliographical research, field work and the use of data from the Park archives. The original base map was produced by using a Digital Terrain Model raster (5 m) and vector layers for the different cartographical elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Susceptibility mapping provides information about vulnerable locations and thus helps to potentially decrease infrastructure damage due to mass wasting. During the past decades, expansion of settlements into areas prone to landslides in Iraq has highlighted the importance of accurate landslide susceptibility studies. The main goal of this research is to implement selected morphometric parameters to improve prediction of landslide susceptibility in the Zagros Mountain region. We used the Mawat area, in the Kurdistan Region (NE Iraq) to test the added value of morphometric indicators. Sixteen morphometric factors, mainly derived from a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), extracted using the stereo-ability of the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) satellite, as well as geological and environmental predictive factors, were appraised. We evaluated and compared Frequency Ratio (FR), Weight of Evidence (WOE), Logistic Regression (LR) and Probit Regression (PR) approaches in combination with morphometric indices to determine the Landslide Susceptibility (LS). The areas under the curve (AUC) of the Prediction Rate Curve (PRC), Relative landslide density Index (R index), and True Positive Percentage (TPP) for the four models show that all models perform similarly, and the focus should be on careful selection of the predictive factors, which is far more important than the methods used. Results indicate that lithology and slope aspects are the more dominant factors that lead to detect possible occurrence of landslides. Furthermore, this work demonstrates that the hypsometric integral performs better than the commonly used slope curvature as a predictor and thus increases the prediction accuracy of the susceptibility map. We argue that the use of adequate morphometric parameters can increase the efficiency of the LS mapping in other regions of the world. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • The careful selection of the prediction factors is more important than the methods used in landslide susceptibility. • The lithology and the slope aspects are the more dominant factors that lead to detect the occurrence of landslides. • The hypsometric integral performs better than the slope curvature as a predictor for landslide susceptibility map. • The probit regression method to map landslide susceptibility, proved itself to be a viable alternative to other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large subaerial landslide entered Taan Fiord, Alaska, on 17 October 2015 producing a tsunami with runup to 193 m. We use LiDAR data to show the slide volume to be 76 + 3/−4 million cubic meters and that 51,000,000 m3 entered Taan Fiord. In 2016, we mapped the fjord with multibeam bathymetry and high‐resolution seismic data. Landslide and postlandslide deposits extend 6 km downfjord, are up to 70 ± 11 m thick, and have a total volume of ~147,000,000 m3. Seismic data image a blocky landslide unit and two units deposited immediately after the landslide. The blocky landslide unit is ~65,000,000 m3. We infer it consists dominantly of subaerially derived material and secondarily of fjord floor sediment. The overlying units are likely megaturbidites presumably deposited within minutes to days after the landslide. We infer that these deposits dominantly consist of fjord floor material mobilized and suspended as the slide entered and traveled downfjord. The lower postlandslide unit is up to 35 ± 6 m thick, and the upper unit is up to 12 ± 3 m thick. These deposits are distinctive and will leave a lasting record of the event. This subaerial‐to‐submarine landslide deposit is distinct from other submarine landslide deposits studied in Alaskan fjords because it has a much greater thickness, larger and more angular blocks, distinctive postlandslide megaturbidites, and a higher‐amplitude acoustic signature of the blocky deposit. The tight constraints on the landslide source and deposit volumes, topography, bathymetry, and tsunami runup heights and flow directions should make this a benchmark site for landslide‐tsunami models. Plain Language Summary: A giant landslide fell into Taan Fiord, Alaska, on 17 October 2015 and caused a tsunami that ran up 193 m—the fourth highest ever recorded. All 10 of the highest tsunami runups ever recorded were caused by this mechanism of a landslide entering a water body. These events are rare; most occurred more than 60 years ago, and the physical environment before and after the landslide are generally not well documented. In Taan Fiord, Alaska, we collected excellent postlandslide data of the Earth's surface, both above and below sea level. We are able to calculate the volume of the landslide and the volume that entered the fjord. We are able to image the landslide and postlandslide deposits, on and beneath the fjord bottom, up to 6 km away from where it entered the water. These deposits are distinctive in their character, up to 70 m thick, and we anticipate that other such deposits should be recognizable in other fjords. The careful documentation of the physical environment of the fjord before and after the landslide, combined with tsunami runup and flow directions, should make this a place where tsunami modelers can test their models to see if they work correctly. Key Points: The Taan Fiord, Alaska, landslide and deposit volumes are tightly constrained, making this a benchmark subaerial‐to‐submarine landslideWe image a blocky landslide deposit on the fjord bottom, which generated a megaturbidite similar to the volume that entered the fjordThis subaerial‐to‐submarine landslide deposit has unique characteristics that should allow identification of other such landslides elsewhere [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geomorphological field mapping is a conventional method used to prepare landslide inventories. The approach is typically hampered by the accessibility and visibility, during field campaigns for landslide mapping, of the different portions of the study area. Statistical significance of landslide susceptibility maps can be significantly reduced if the classification algorithm is trained in unsurveyed regions of the study area, for which landslide absence is typically assumed, while ignorance about landslide presence should actually be acknowledged.We compare different landslide susceptibility zonations obtained by training the classification model either in the entire study area or in the only portion of the area that was actually surveyed, which we name effective surveyed area. The latter was delineated by an automatic procedure specifically devised for the purpose, which uses information gathered during surveys, along with landslide locations. The method was tested in Gipuzkoa Province (Basque Country), north of the Iberian Peninsula, where digital thematic maps were available and a landslide survey was performed. We prepared the landslide susceptibility maps and the associated uncertainty within a logistic regression model, using both slope units and regular grid cells as the reference mapping unit. Results indicate that the use of effective surveyed area for landslide susceptibility zonation is a valid approach that minimises the limitations stemming from unsurveyed regions at landslide mapping time. Use of slope units as mapping units, instead of grid cells, mitigates the uncertainties introduced by training the automatic classifier within the entire study area. Our method pertains to data preparation and, as such, the relevance of our conclusions is not limited to the logistic regression but are valid for virtually all the existing multivariate landslide susceptibility models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incision and aggradation of the Pativilca alluvial fan delta system in the western Peruvian Andes through Quaternary time can be traced in detail using well-exposed fill terraces studied by a combination of cosmogenic nuclide dating, terrace mapping and paleo-erosion rate calculations. Two alluvial terraces have been dated through depth-profile exposure dating using in-situ 10 Be. The dating results return an age for the abandonment of the terrace at 200 ± 90 ka in Pativilca and 1.2 Ma ± 0.3 Ma in Barranca. These new ages complete the database of previously dated terrace fills in the valley. Together with the results of the terrace mapping and the absolute ages of the terraces, we show that the valley fills are made up of at least four terraces; two terraces near the city of Pativilca and two terraces in the city of Barranca. While previous studies have shown two periods of sediment aggradation, one period around 100 ka (Barranca) and another period around 30 ka (Pativilca), our new results show two additional periods of sediment aggradation and subsequent incision that have not been reported before. Finally, paleo-erosion rates at the time of the deposition of the terrace material were calculated and compared to the available modern estimates. The paleo-erosion rates vary from 140 ± 12 m Ma −1 to 390 ± 40 m Ma −1 . The period of sediment accumulation prior to the abandonment of the terrace at 200 ka corresponds to a wet phase and a pulse of erosion. In contrast, the period of sediment accumulation prior to the abandonment of the terrace at 1.2 Ma does not correspond to a pulse of erosion and could rather correspond to a change of the base level possibly induced by a sea-level rise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On Earth a transitional phase between glacial and interglacial periods is referred to as the paraglacial period. This period immediately postdates glacial retreat and is characterized by ice removal, glacial unloading, and the exposure of steep slopes and large sediment stores. These responses led to the development of a suite of morphologic units (e.g., talus cones, gullies, sackungen, and polygons) which, when observed together, are indicative of the paraglacial period. A similar period of transitional climate and deglaciation is identified on Mars in the Late Amazonian, characterized by the association of features in a glaciated 10.6 km diameter mid-latitude crater. This crater contains concentric crater fill (CCF) formed by debris-covered glaciers, as well as a suite of stratigraphically younger geomorphic units (e.g., spatulate depressions, washboard terrain, gullies, and polygonal terrain) that are all indicative of the local environmental response to deglaciation. These features are interpreted to represent a geologically recent martian paraglacial period within this crater. The morphology and relative stratigraphic relationships among these paraglacial features are described in order to assess the processes operating during deglaciation and to document the recent history of glaciation on Mars: spatulate depressions formed by the differential sublimation of pure glacial ice near the base of the crater wall; subsequently, due to the loss of basal support and steepened slopes, remnant ice on the crater wall began to flow downhill, and formed transverse crevasses that created washboard terrain. Continuous thermal cycling of sediment-mantled ice on crater walls created fractures that formed polygonal terrain. During this time and after, gullies formed by the transport of sediment downslope from crater rim alcoves. Analyses of modeled obliquity variations suggest that the paraglacial period could have operated within the last ∼5 Myr and may still be ongoing, suggesting that the current martian paraglacial period is much longer in duration than typical paraglacial periods on Earth. Understanding the nature and sequence of paraglacial activity can help to identify variations in climate in recent Mars history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the studying of landslides in the hinterland area of the Koroška Bela settlement, NW Slovenia. Research has shown that these landslides have the potential to mobilize the material into a debris flow. The area of interest is located on the Karavanke mountain ridge, above the settlement of Koroška Bela, which lies on the outskirts of the town of Jesenice. In order to recognize and understand the kinematics of landslides and their triggering mechanisms, a multidisciplinary approach using engineering-geological and geotechnical investigations was applied. Thus, landslide source areas were determined based on engineering-geological mapping. Furthermore, landslide boundaries, types of landslides and sediments that are involved in processes of sliding were mapped in detail. Geotechnical monitoring is beneficial in evaluating rates of movement and failures in the ground under real conditions in the field. Current investigations as well as historical evidence and previous research prove that the hinterland of Koroška Bela is prone to various types of landslides that together form a source area that has the potential to mobilize into larger debris flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The knowledge base of aquifer disposition and characteristics form input to evolve an effective and sustainable plan to manage groundwater resources. This research paper explains how the Hydro-geological and hydro-geophysical aspect of the Thirukkazhukundram block has helped in successfully demarcating the shallow and deep Aquifers. 30 Vertical Electrical Soundings(VES) were conducted using Schlumberger array. The data was analyzed by curve matching method and pseudo-resistivity maps were prepared using 'IPI2Win' Software. 12 curve types are an additional proof. This VES technique with Dar Zarrouk and Aquifer anisotropy parameters estimation is best in identifying shallow and deep aquifer which is of mammoth use to water-related supervisors, planners and other academicians in the field of groundwater resources management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The comprehensive study of intramountain basins located in the Coastal Cordillera of the continental emergent Andean forearc in Northern Chile, enables the better understanding of the nature and evolution of the upper crustal deformation during the Neogene and Quaternary. A case study is the extensive extensional half-graben Alto Hospicio basin. The basin is cut by the Coastal Cliff, which exposes the deformed Neogene basin fill. Also exposed are several structural systems, some of which affect Quaternary surfaces. The results of the integrated geophysical surveys (Electromagnetic Transient and Gravity) allow us to fully constrain the geometry of the Alto Hospicio basin and the lithological relationship between the subsurface geological units. The structural geology analysis assesses the deformation regimes affecting the faults present in the basin and surrounding area. Altogether evidence a change in the deformation regime from an EW extensional deformation during the Miocene-Pliocene to a NS compression in the Quaternary as is presented in this study. We suggest this deformation change is related to a small change in the convergence vector orientation during the Pliocene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpine landscapes are typically characterized by inherited features of past glaciations and, for the more recent past, by the interplay of a multitude of types of geomorphic processes, including permafrost creep, rockfalls, debris flows, and landslides. These different processes usually exhibit large spatial and temporal variations in activity and velocity. The understanding of these processes in a wide alpine area is often hindered by difficulties in their surveying. In this study, we attempt to disentangle recent changes in an alpine landscape system using geomorphic mapping and L-band DInSAR analyses (ALOS-PALSAR) in the Zermatt Valley, Swiss Alps. Geomorphic mapping points to a preferential distribution of rock glaciers on north-facing slopes, whereas talus slopes are concentrated on south-facing slopes. Field-based interpretation of ground deformation in rock glaciers and movements in talus slopes correlates well with the ratio of InSAR images showing potential ground deformation. Moraines formed during the Little Ice Age, rock glaciers, and talus slopes on north-facing slopes are more active than landforms on south-facing slopes, implying that the presence of permafrost facilitates the deformation of these geomorphic units. Such deformations of geomorphic units prevail also at the elevation of glacier termini. For rock cliffs, the ratio of images indicating retreat is affected by slope orientation and elevation. Linkages between sediment supply from rock cliffs and sediment transport in torrents are different among tributaries, affected by relative locations between sediment supply areas and the channel network. We conclude that the combined use of field surveys and L-band DInSAR analyses can substantially improve process understanding in steep, high-mountain terrain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The understanding of fluid flow in faulted sandstones is based on a wide range of techniques. These depend on the multi-method determination of petrological and structural features, porous network properties and both spatial and temporal variations and interactions of these features. The question of the multi-parameter analysis on fluid flow controlling properties is addressed for an outcrop damage zone in the hanging wall of a normal fault zone on the western border of the Upper Rhine Graben, affecting the Buntsandstein Group (Early Triassic). Diagenetic processes may alter the original pore type and geometry in fractured and faulted sandstones. Therefore, these may control the ultimate porosity and permeability of the damage zone. The classical model of evolution of hydraulic properties with distance from the major fault core is nuanced here. The hydraulic behavior of the rock media is better described by a pluri-scale model including: 1) The grain scale, where the hydraulic properties are controlled by sedimentary features, the distance from the fracture, and the impact of diagenetic processes. These result in the ultimate porous network characteristics observed. 2) A larger scale, where the structural position and characteristics (density, connectivity) of the fracture corridors are strongly correlated with both geo-mechanical and hydraulic properties within the damage zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is an attempt to construct a morpho-structural model for the Korek anticline that is located within the High folded zone of the Zagros Fold and Thrust Belt in the Northern Iraq-Kurdistan region. A detail geological map constructed for this structure, the stratigraphic succession that is exposed in the area was deposited from the middle Jurassic up to upper Cretaceous, and consists of nine formations. The most important morphological landscape and landforms in the studied area are due to endogenic and exogenic processes. Accordingly, the area is divided into four main units, which are units of structural, denudational, fluvial and solution origins. Each unit characterized by its own morphological feature differs from one another. According to structural point of view the field data are analyzed from two point of the viewing, one from map view and secondly from cross sections. The geometrical properties from map view of the Korek Anticline indicated that this fold is an asymmetrical double plunging, open to gentle, non-cylindrically curviplanar fold. The Korek Anticline becomes sharper with the depth, but broader and more open upward, this is one of the most characteristic features of the parallel fold (Class 1B). The presence of numerous reverse faults and strike-slip faults which affect the architecture of the Korek Anticline indicates that this Anticline formed by a Fault-propagation fold mechanism. Detailed balanced and retro-deformable cross sections along this anticline indicate that the shortening percentage can be differentiated in space and times, while the depth to detachment gives values that iscoincident with the Ora Shale Formation of Paleozoic age. A morpho-structural model was constructed for this structure and it consists of two main stages and five substages were responsible for the formation of the Korek structure. The first main stage belongs to structural construction, which consists of three sub-stages, while the main second stage is belonging to morphological destruction, which consist also two sub-stages. The effect of these stages and sub-stages makes the anticline to take the nowadays architects shape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detailed microscopic investigations of horizons in a surface paleosol, part of a pedostratigraphic stack of tills at New Mountain, Antarctica, dated to the middle Miocene climatic optimum event (ca. 15 Ma), suggest not only that the paleoclimate history of the continent can be read from stratigraphic layers within paleosols but also that records of cosmic events may lie embedded in coatings on sand clasts resident in paleosols. Recent microscopic and chemical data from sands in the upper horizons of a surface paleosol (Ant-828), adjacent to the Taylor Glacier, contain Fe and Na coatings surfaced with cosmic signatures including welded and shock-melted grains, opaque carbon coatings, microfeature stack of cards, Fe spherules, solubilized grain surfaces with streams of melted skin, a grain carrying an Ir signature, rare earth elements elevated above crustal averages, and slightly elevated Pt/Pd ratios. The projected link to the probable black-mat event of 12.8 ka is reinforced by the presence of fresh opaque carbon and other cosmic signatures on grain surfaces that overlie well-weathered grain features, presumably weathering from middle Miocene time near today. Evidence of CO2 and NOx accumulations dated to 12.9 ka in the Taylor Ice Dome suggest that the black-mat impact/airburst of the same time line as the Younger Dryas boundary may have reached across South America and the Pacific Ocean to the Dry Valley Mountains of Antarctica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mid-Holocene climate of Northwest Arabia is characterised by a significant increase in aridity which gave rise to changes in water management strategies including sophisticated techniques at later stages. The Rasif site, situated in Northwest Saudi Arabia, reveals a Late Neolithic society with multi-roomed domestic structures (1st phase, 6th millennium BCE, before the current era ) . At Rasif site the sediments of an endorheic basin ( qa ) show a minimum in salinity during this 1st phase. The 2nd phase is characterised by a pastoral ‘Chalcolithic’ watering and ‘Chalcolithic’ burial location of the 5th millennium BCE with wells, complex trough systems, and initial, probably coexistent grave structures. During this 2nd phase the qa deposits show already a slight increase in salinity. We have evidence for a sub-surface water-rich sand layer within the qa that was exploited by shallow wells. During the subsequent 3rd phase the number of pastoral ‘Chalcolithic’ D-shaped grave structures within the qa increased, probably co-existing with deepened wells and complex trough systems. At that time the qa is covered by an almost impermeable saline clay layer. The 4th phase is characterised by a culturally yet to identify pastoral post-‘Chalcolithic’ watering location with single small troughs. The final 5th phase represents a culturally unidentified pastoral post-’Chalcolithic’ to sub-recent water harvesting location with complex dam systems, which were probably modified numerous times. The dam systems allowed to flooding the qas for several months, providing (sub-) surface water in the nowadays Northwest Arabian desert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article summarizes an exploratory study carried out to investigate the significance of various geomorphic features on the formation of observed knickpoints along the upper Indus River in northern Pakistan. These features include bedrock lithology, active faults, sediment flux from tributary channels, and landslide dams which have blocked the main channel. The knickpoints and their related geomorphic parameters (channel profile, concavity, drainage area and normalized steepness index, etc.) were extracted from Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection (ASTER) Global Digital Elevation Models (GDEMs) with 30 m resolution using ArcGIS, River Tools, and Matlab software. A total of 251 major and minor knickpoints were extracted from the longitudinal profile along a ~ 750 km reach upstream of Tarbela Reservoir. The identified knickpoints and their respective normalized steepness index (ksn values) were compared with bedrock lithology, mapped faults, regional landslide/rockslide inventory, and the locations of historic landslide dams. The analyses revealed that the knickpoints do not correlate with the bedrock lithology except where major unit boundaries coexist with mapped faults, especially in reaches criss-crossed by active thrust faults in the Nanga Parbat Haramosh (NPHM) region. Neither did the river’s major confluences exhibit any notable knickpoints, but the correlations between knickpoints, mapped landslides, and historic rockslide avalanche dams accounted for approximately 75% of the observed knickpoints, a surprising finding. These observations suggest that more detailed studies aided by high resolution data should be undertaken to further explore the characteristics of knickpoints triggered by tectonic uplift, local fault offset, bedrock erodibility, and landslide/rockslide dams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]