Mars Exploration European Space Agency Space Exploration & Science Missions

ExoMars orbiter data point to possible active volcanism beneath Mars’ Alba Mons

Measurements from the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter show hydrogen chloride emissions and newly formed fissures near Alba Mons, which may be allowing gases from subsurface volcanic hotspots to reach the Martian surface. Researchers say the observations provide new evidence consistent with a potentially active magma chamber.

Discovered 2026-11-04T11:04:43.563305-08:00 | 2026-11-04T11:04:43.563305-08:00

Briefing

What Hype is tracking

The findings add evidence that Mars may have ongoing subsurface volcanic activity, based on atmospheric measurements and newly formed fissures near Alba Mons.
The result demonstrates how orbital observations can help identify changes and processes beneath the Martian surface.

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The Independent fr.de Reuters lefigaro.fr NASA Spaceflight sueddeutsche.de