IN SHORT
1 Ahmedabad-based Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) discovered three new craters on Mars.
2 Named after physicist Devendra Lal and the towns Mursan (UP) and Hilsa (Bihar).
3 Located in the Tharsis volcanic region.
4 Lal Crater is 65 km in diameter; Mursan and Hilsa are about 10 km wide each.
5 Findings hint at Mars' wet past.
Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad has made significant discoveries that continue to reveal secrets about the Martian surface’s wet past. The names “Lal,” “Mursan,” and “Hilsa,” three recently discovered craters, provide interesting new information about the planet’s geological past and possible previous habitability.
About Lal Crater
Lal Crater is the largest of the three, measuring about 65 kilometers in diameter. It bears the name of Professor Devendra Lal, a famous cosmic ray physicist. Professor Lal, who led PRL from 1972 to 1983, made significant advances in space exploration and cosmic ray physics. His groundbreaking work has made a substantial contribution to our knowledge of cosmic rays and how they affect planetary environments.
Geological Significance
Significant sedimentary layers in Lal Crater were discovered by NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter’s SHARAD (Shallow Radar) system. These deposits offer strong proof that water previously crossed the surface of Mars. The significance of this discovery lies in its contribution to our understanding of the historical climate, habitability, and evolution of Mars over billions of years.
Mursan and Hilsa Craters
The other two craters are called Hilsa and Mursan, and they are situated on the western and eastern sides of Lal Crater, respectively. They are also about 10 kilometers wide. These names, which highlight the cultural relevance and geographical diversity of India, were inspired by the towns in the Hathras district of Uttar Pradesh and the Nalanda district of Bihar.
Tharsis Volcanic Plateau
The craters are located in the western hemisphere of Mars’ Tharsis volcanic region, which is a large plateau close to the equator. The largest volcanoes in the Solar System are known to be found on Tharsis. On June 5, the International Astronomical Union’s (IAU) Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature formally authorized the official designation of these craters based on PRL’s recommendations.
Important turning points in Martian exploration have been reached with the finding and naming of the Lal, Mursan, and Hilsa craters. In addition to paying tribute to notable people and locations, these craters advance our knowledge of Mars’s geological past and its potential for future scientific discoveries.
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