PHOBOS, THE SMALLER AND CLOSER of
Mars' two moons, has an orbital speed of the red planet.
As seen from the surface of the Mars, Phobos will rise and set twice each day.
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| Phobos |
The moon's orbital speed is gradually decreasing and it is estimated that in around 11 million years it will either crash into
Mars or tidal forces will break it up and form a ring system.
The origin of Phobos is unknown, but like Deimos, it is possible that it was an asteroid that was captured by
Mars gravitational field.
With a density too low for it to be solid rock, it is believed that it is largely composed of ice surrounded by a layer of accumulated rock and dust, at least 100 m /328 ft thick.
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| Craters of Phobos |
The regolith on the leading face of the moon is marked with grooves and streaks thought to be caused by collisions with material thrown into the moon's path by impacts on
Mars in the past.
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