Noctis Labyrinthus

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Noctis Labyrinthus is a group of intersecting canyons that lies at the western end of Valles Marineris. It is in the Phoenicis Laus quadrangle. The center coordinates of Noctis Labyrinthus are 7.0 S and 102.2 W. The canyons of this feature are faults known as grabens. Grabens happen when a center section drops lower than sections on either side.

Discovered by Mariner 9, the name "Noctis Labyrinthus," means "the labyrinth of the night."

Noctis Labyrinthus (circled) lies at the western end of Valles Marineris
Noctis Labyrinthus
Context image of Noctis Labyrinthus


Close view of Noctis Labyrinthus

Research from 2009 found a variety of minerals, including clays, sulfates, and hydrated silicas, in some of the layers.[1] These minerals are associated with water. The water may have been from a body of water or may have come from groundwater. Since water had to be involved in their formation, evidence of ancient or existing life may be found there.

Close view of Noctis Labyrinthus with HiRISE
Close view of layers on floor of Noctis Labyrinthus with HiRISE