Another theory that’s gotten some press lately is that the volcano initially formed under a mile or more of ice, much like the shield volcanoes in Iceland. This can (apparently; I’m a geology hobbyist at best) lead to those steep reliefs. Here’s the original paper discussing the theory. I know I’ve seen some recent publications showing more evidence that’s come from the latest Mars missions, but I can’t seem to find them at the moment.
bobfossilsnipples t1_ivafmik wrote
Reply to What is the cause of the steep escarpment at the base of Olympus Mons? by Strong-Ball-1089
Another theory that’s gotten some press lately is that the volcano initially formed under a mile or more of ice, much like the shield volcanoes in Iceland. This can (apparently; I’m a geology hobbyist at best) lead to those steep reliefs. Here’s the original paper discussing the theory. I know I’ve seen some recent publications showing more evidence that’s come from the latest Mars missions, but I can’t seem to find them at the moment.