This comprehensive book describes and explains the tectonic landforms that result from major internal and external forces acting on the outer layers of solid bodies throughout the Solar System. It presents a detailed survey of tectonic structures at a range of length scales that are found on Mercury, Venus, the Moon, Mars, the outer planet satellites, and asteroids.
A diverse range of models for the sources of tectonic stresses acting on silicate and icy crusts is outlined - comparing and contrasting processes acting throughout the Solar System. Rheological and mechanical properties of different planetary crusts and lithospheres are discussed with a view to understanding how and why tectonic stresses manifest themselves differently on the various bodies presented. Results from fault population data are discussed in detail.
Methods for mapping and analyzing planetary tectonic features are presented, and the book is fully illustrated with explanatory diagrams and spectacular images returned by manned and robotic spacecraft, with all color figures also available online at www.cambridge.org/9780521765732. Incorporating extensive reference lists, this volume forms an essential reference for researchers and for students in planetary geology and tectonics.