Radar Attenuation in the Shallow Martian Subsurface: RIMFAX Time-Frequency Analysis and Constant-Q Characterization Over Jezero Crater Floor

Abstract

Attenuation of radar waves in the subsurface can be quantified with a constant-Q approximation through time-frequency analysis. We implement the centroid frequency-shift method and study Radar Imager for Mars' Subsurface Exploration (RIMFAX) data acquired along the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover traverse. Attenuation is among key media properties, but quantified estimates need to account for instrument characteristics and limitations in the analysis technique. We ensure accurate constant-Q characterization and present the first estimates of radar attenuation in the upper 5 m of the shallow Martian subsurface. Over Jezero Crater Floor, constant-Q is on average 70.4 ± 7.7, which equals an attenuation of −2.6 ± 0.3 dB/m at RIMFAX’ 675 MHz center frequency. Regions comprising the Máaz or Séítah formations have similar attenuation properties that are consistent with magmatic lithologies.