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Complex Network of Narrow Fractures near Hestia Rupes Region (possible Natural Colors; credits: Dr Paolo C. Fienga - Lunexit Team)
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This is a Magellan radar image covering an about 105- Km (approx. 63-mile) by 45-Km (approx. 27-mile) Region near Hestia Rupes on the North-Western corner of Aphrodite Terra.
The complex network of narrow (such as <1 Km) Fractures in the center of the image extends for approx. 50 Km (about 31 miles). This network exhibits tributary-like branches similar to those observed in river systems on Earth. However, the angular intersections of the tributaries suggest tectonic control.
These features appear to be due to drainage of lava along preexisting fractures and subsequent collapse of the Surface. The underlying tectonic fabric can be observed in the North-East trending Ridges which predate the Plains.
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