Widespread — Noachian basalts (ancient), Amazonian volcanic plains
Estimated Quantity
~45% pyroxene and olivine in volcanic regions
As of 2021-01-01
Mars has extensive basaltic volcanic rocks from multiple epochs. CRISM on MRO has mapped pyroxene and olivine deposits globally. Curiosity found high-silica rocks in Gale Crater suggesting ancient hydrothermal activity. Phyllosilicates (clay minerals) found by OMEGA/Mars Express in Noachian-aged terrains indicate aqueous alteration. These minerals are potential feedstocks for cement analogs and glassy composites that could replace Earth-imported construction materials.
Silica for glass production, olivine/pyroxene for geopolymer cement without heating, basalt fiber composite materials for structural applications
Confidence: high · Last verified 2026-06-01
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