Université de Sherbrooke|Université de Sherbrooke

Purpose

One of the main goals in the field of planetary exploration is to document the geological record and processes that have shaped the surface of the terrestrial planets. Remote sensing measurements acquired by orbital spacecraft are the first component which can provide such information. The main project objective is to study gossans, a sulphide-rich bedrock geological feature, in the Canadian Arctic as analogues to ancient hydrothermal systems on Mars, one of the key places to look for signs of life. The project aims at combining remote sensing measurements from various platforms and sample analysis to develop new scientific knowledge and provide students with hands-on experience in a space-like mission. The research will also have a broad impact in terrestrial geology as gossans are of high economic and environmental significance.