Aeolian processes and their effects on understanding the chronology of Mars

Aeolian (wind) processes can transport particles over large distances on Ma rs, leading to the modification or removal of surface features, formation o f new landforms, and mantling or burial of surfaces. Erosion of mantling de posits by wind deflation can exhume older surfaces. These processes and the ir effects on the surface must be taken into account in using impact crater statistics to derive chronologies on Mars. In addition, mapping the locati ons, relative ages, and orientations of aeolian features can provide insigh t into Martian weather, climate, and climate history.