Scientists Puzzled by Huge Shadowy Blight Spreading Across Surface of Mars

ESA’s Mars Express has captured a rapidly expanding dark patch in Utopia Planitia on Mars.

Scientists think the change may be caused by wind moving volcanic ash or by dust being removed to reveal darker material.

The evolving surface could point to active geological processes and offer clues to Mars’ volcanic past.

Researchers are also using the new images to compare with older NASA Viking observations and track how the area has changed over decades.