Geologic maps of science study site 1A, East Mangala Valles, Mars

The east Mangala Valles area merits detailed geologic study because it contains several small channels whose ages can be determined relative to geologic units that range in age from early (Noachian) to late (Amazonian) periods of Martian history. Because small channels are of three ages and geomorphic types, their study increases our understanding of the continuity of fluvial processes in the evolutionary history of Mars. For these reasons, part of the area is a candidate site for a sample return mission to Mars.