A Reappraisal of Subtropical Subsurface Water Ice Stability on Mars

Abstract

Two arguments have suggested the presence of subsurface water ice at latitudes lower than 30\textdegree~on Mars. First, the absence of CO2 frost on pole-facing slopes was explained by the presence of subsurface ice. Second, models suggested that subsurface ice could be stable underneath these slopes. We revisit these arguments with a new slope microclimate model. Our model shows that below 30{\deg} latitude, slopes are warmer than previously estimated as the air above is heated by warm surrounding plains. This additional heat prevents the formation of CO2 and subsurface water ice for most slopes. Higher than 30{\deg}S, our model suggests the presence of subsurface water ice. In sparse cases (steep dusty slopes), subsurface ice may exist down to 25{\deg}S. While hypothetical unstable ice deposits cannot be excluded by our model, our results suggest that water ice is rarer than previously thought in the +- 30{\deg} latitude range considered for human exploration.