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A possible origin for the grooves of Phobos

Nature volume 282, pages 697–698 (1979)Cite this article

Abstract

The surface of Phobos, the inner satellite of Mars, is marked by a series of linear depressions or grooves. These have been interpreted as surface manifestations of internal fractures1,2. The origin of these fractures has been ascribed to tidal stresses induced by the decay of Phobos' orbit3, or to a nearly catastrophic cratering event2.I suggest here that the age and distribution of the grooves may be explained by a hybrid origin due to varying tidal stresses induced after a large impact altered the satellite's rotation rate.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Planetary Science Institute, 2030 East Speedway, Suite 201, Tucson, Arizona, 85719

    Stuart J. Weidenschilling

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  1. Stuart J. Weidenschilling
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Weidenschilling, S. A possible origin for the grooves of Phobos. Nature 282, 697–698 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1038/282697a0

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