Mars has been extensively photographed by cameras and compositionally
detected by spectrometers onboard orbiters on a global scale, and
explored in-situ by landers and rovers at both local and outcrop
scales in different locations. The results have proved that the Martian
surface is rich in Earth-like geomorphologies, and the study of
terrestrial analogs to Mars has been listed as one of the highest
priorities of Martian science. With increasing new discoveries by
in-situ explorations, Mars exploration has begun to enter the era of
focusing on detailed analyses at regional to outcrop levels, rather than
global mapping. Analog studies are playing a crucial role in this
transition, making this book, which introduces the methodology and
provides cases for readers, essentially important.
Dozens of sites on Earth have been listed as analog targets for
comparative study with the geomorphology, geology, geochemistry,
environment and habitability of Mars. However, due to the diversity of
landforms and forming mechanisms, and the long history of Mars, no
single analog site on Earth can be fully compared to Mars. Nonetheless,
the Qaidam Basin has been listed as an unique Mars analog site for
studying the red planet's geomorphology, geology, and environmental
changes, particularly regarding the evolution of paleolakes on Mars.
This kind of setting has always been listed as a top priority for the
search of life on Mars.
This book contains first-hand information and on-site images obtained by
the work's contributing authors, and is an essential read for anyone
interested in Martian geomorphology and its evolution processes and
history.
