NASA's InSight Data Offers New Clues to Mars' Mysterious Dichotomy

Seismic analysis suggests ancient internal processes may explain the stark differences between Mars' northern and southern hemispheres.

Mars' surface is divided into northern lowlands and southern highlands, differing in elevation and crust thickness—a phenomenon known as the 'Martian dichotomy.'
New seismic data from NASA's InSight lander supports the theory that internal planetary processes, such as mantle convection, likely caused this division.
Researchers found that the southern hemisphere's mantle is significantly hotter, which aligns with the idea of ancient tectonic activity shaping the planet's crust.
The study highlights how Mars transitioned from tectonic activity to a 'stagnant lid' structure, preserving the dichotomy for billions of years.
While the findings favor internal origins, scientists emphasize the need for further seismic data and modeling to rule out external causes like asteroid impacts.