Cerberus Fossae

The linear depressions at the top half of this VIS image are graben that are called Cerberus Fossae. Graben form where extensional tectonic forces allows blocks of material to subside between paired faults. Cerberus Fossae are located in Elysium Planitia, southeast of the Elysium Mons volcanic complex. This graben is also the source of significant liquid flows, which created Athabasca Valles. The actual formation liquid proposed include flood water, low viscosity lava, and even glaciers. It is possible that water and lava both played a role in creating the channel system. Orbit Number: 78821 Latitude: 10.1133 Longitude: 157.297 Instrument: VIS Captured: 2019-09-21 10:33 https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA23503