Spiders of Mars Illustration

A new theory has been proposed to explain the strange spider-like dark spots that are seen in circumpolar regions of Mars during local spring.

The theory to explain the creation of these dark spots is described in the Arizona State University press release Gas jets spawn dark ‘spiders’ and spots on Mars icecap.

A great illustration of the effect done by astronomical artist and IAAA member Ron Miller can be seen at http://themis.asu.edu/news-polarjets.