On the Martian Surface, a Slice of Kerala: Indian Names for Geological Features on Mars

Context:

• The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has officially approved the naming of seven geological features on Mars after Indian locations and personalities, many linked to Kerala and India’s space and geological legacy.

• This recognition highlights India’s growing contribution to planetary science and global scientific collaboration.

Key Highlights:

IAU Announcement and Indian Representation

• On November 24, the IAU announced the naming of multiple Martian craters and valleys after Indian geographical landmarks and institutions.

• The list includes Periyar River, Varkala Beach, Bekal Fort, Thumba, Valiamala, and features named after renowned geologist M. S. Krishnan.

Honouring Scientific Legacy – M. S. Krishnan

• A 77 km diameter crater on Mars has been named Krishnan Crater, after M. S. Krishnan, a distinguished Indian geologist associated with the Geological Survey of India (GSI).

• A 50 km wide plain surface has been named Krishnan Palus, further cementing India’s geological legacy in planetary nomenclature.

Kerala’s Geographic Footprint on Mars

• Periyar, Kerala’s longest river (≈300 km), now lends its name to a Martian valley.

• Varkala, known for its unique cliff formations, is represented by a 1.4 km wide crater.

• Bekal Fort, a mid-17th century fort, is commemorated through a 4.9 km diameter crater.

ISRO and Academic Linkages

• Thumba, the birthplace of ISRO, and Valiamala, home to the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), have also been immortalized as Martian craters.

• The naming proposal originated from scientists at IIST, based on their ongoing research contributions.

Scientific Basis for Naming

• The Varkala crater is significant due to the presence of jarosite remnants, which are geologically important as they indicate water-related processes, relevant for Martian land composition studies.

Relevant Prelims Points:

• Issue: Planetary nomenclature and international recognition of Indian landmarks.

• Institution Involved: International Astronomical Union (IAU) – global authority for naming celestial bodies and surface features.

• Nomenclature Rules:

  • Large craters (>60 km): Named after scientists

  • Small craters: Named after towns/villages with populations below 1 lakh

• Indian Agencies Linked:

  • IIST (Valiamala)

  • Geological Survey of India (via M. S. Krishnan)

• Impact: Enhances India’s visibility in planetary science and astronomy.

Relevant Mains Points:

• Key Concepts:

  • Planetary Nomenclature: Standardized system for naming extraterrestrial features

  • IAU: International authority ensuring uniform scientific naming

• Science & Technology Dimension (GS III):

  • Growing Indian participation in planetary research and space sciences

  • Linkages between Earth geology and planetary geology

• Geography Dimension (GS I):

  • Recognition of Indian physical features (rivers, coasts, forts) in global scientific contexts

• Conceptual Clarity:

  • Use of terrestrial analogues (e.g., jarosite in Varkala cliffs) to interpret Martian geology

• Way Forward:

  • Strengthening planetary science research in India

  • Expanding international collaboration through ISRO and academic institutions

  • Leveraging Mars exploration data for comparative planetary studies

UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):

• GS I: Indian Geography, cultural and physical landmarks

• GS III: Science & Technology, space research, planetary science

• Prelims: IAU, planetary nomenclature, Indian space institutions