AMEC 2006

Solid Martian surfaces, like that on Earth, consist primarily of granular materials. These seemingly simple materials (when considered from a local perspective) masquerade their complexity in their macroscopic behaviour. Under varying conditions, they may readily enter into gas-like, fluid-like or solid-like states. This can present formidable hindrances for not only transportation across terrains, but also digging (mining, foundation work ... etc) for a long-term sustainment of life. Very brief descriptions of these materials and techniques of modelling will be discussed.