Ancient Landslides Unearthed on Solar System's Largest Volcano

Astronomers have discovered massive landslides on the largest volcano in the solar system, Olympus Mons on Mars. These landslides, which occurred millions of years ago, were triggered by lava flows that melted ice and water, causing the rocky rim of the volcano to break off and partially slide away. The resulting geological feature, known as Lycus Sulci, is characterized by steep cliffs and a rough-textured aureole. Images from the European Space Agency's Mars Express spacecraft have provided insights into the formation of these landslides and the history of water on Mars.