Syrtis Major
Formerly known as the Kaiser Sea, one of the most conspicuous dark markings on the surface of Mars. It is centered near 290° W and 10° N, extends some 1,500 km (930 miles) north from the planet's equator, and spans 1,000 km (620 miles) from west to east. Its existence was first noted by Christiaan Huygens; in fact, it was the first permanent feature to be seen on the surface of any planet. Later observers noticed that Syrtis Major, and features surrounding it, were subject to seasonal changes, the nature of which was the cause of much speculation (see Mars, changes on).
In the accompanying picture, taken by the Hubble Space Telescope, Syrtis Major is the prominent dark shape in the center. Below it, appearing white and oval, lies the giant impact basin Hellas.
Related categories
• MARS TOPICS
• GEOLOGY AND PLANETARY SCIENCE
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