Cerberus Fossae

The linear depressions at the top of the VIS image are some of the graben that comprise Cerberus Fossae. Graben form where extensional tectonic forces allows blocks of material to subside between paired faults. Cerberus Fossae is located in Elysium Planitia, southeast of the Elysium Mons volcanic complex. These graben were also the source of significant volcanic flows, creating the flow features to the top and the bottom of the graben. These flows are called Athabasca Valles. Water may have also been released from the graben, creating a complex history for channel forms in this region.