Labeatis Fossae

The linear feature in this VIS image is part of Labeatis Fossae. Fossae are linear depressions, most often caused by extensional tectonic forces pulling the crust apart and allowing material to slide downward between bounding faults. This type of feature is called a graben. Looking closely at the center of this image, circular margins exist within the fossae. In regions of volcanic flows, such circular margins within a linear depression may be caused by roof collapse into an underlying void left by a lava tube. As this feature is located in the Tharsis volcanic region, it is likely that this feature was primarily created by volcanic collapse rather than tectonic stress. Orbit Number: 85955 Latitude: 22.6818 Longitude: 266.499 Instrument: VIS Captured: 2021-04-30 20:21 https://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA24890