Lithospheric strength and elastic properties for Mars from InSight geophysical data

Elastic moduli and unconfined compressive strength (UCS), material constants which help constrain the mechanical behaviors of rock materials, are useful for developing accurate models of geologic processes like fracturing and faulting. On Earth, UCS and elastic moduli for intact rock can be measured with uniaxial and triaxial compressive strength tests; however, when geological units are highly fractured, it is more appropriate to estimate these parameters for the rock mass, fractures included. At depth, these estimations can be obtained using seismic wave velocities where stronger more intact rock masses result in faster velocities. We use seismic wave velocities from the InSight Lander to derive the elastic moduli and UCS for the upper crust, lower crust, and mantle of Mars. These estimates could be used in developing models for lithospheric deformation on the red planet.

Automated summary

Elastic moduli and unconfined compressive strength (UCS) are important material constants in understanding the mechanical behaviors of rock materials. This study aims to estimate these constants for different layers of Mars using seismic wave velocities obtained from the InSight Lander. The results could contribute to the development of models for lithospheric deformation on Mars.