Planetary scientist Valentin Bickel used deep learning algorithms to identify and analyze images of over two million slope streaks–areas where Mars’ top layers of fine dust have been displaced. However, around one in 1,000 slope streaks is caused by visitors from outer space. The results from the meteoroid’s powerful impacts sit above the crate–a roughly 2.3 square mile patch of discolored slope streaks. “Dust, wind and sand dynamics appear to be the main seasonal drivers of slope streak formation,” Bickel said in a statement. “Meteoroid impacts and quakes seem to be locally distinct, yet globally relatively insignificant drivers.”Additional data helped Bickel and colleagues determine the meteoroid impacts and streak formations likely occurred between 2013 and 2017.