Space probes have captured images of intriguing spider-like formations on Mars. NASA has put forth a theory on what created these huge patterns.

The Kieffer model, the researchers concluded, was an accurate representation of the processes that produce, not just the spiders, but other seasonal features that appear on the surface of Mars. In future research, the team hopes to fine-tune and adapt their experiments to understand these features and their formation in greater detail.

Tests on Earth appear to confirm how the red planet's spider-shaped geologic formations are carved by carbon dioxide.

Nasa scientists have recreated Martian 'spiders' in laboratory conditions for the first time, simulating Mars' extreme temperatures and air pressure.

Mars is home to strange spider-shaped geologic formations known as the araneiform terrain, which are found mostly in the southern hemisphere.

A team of scientists at NASA have confirmed how Mars' 'spider' formations are carved by carbon dioxide. They were first discovered in 2003 and each formation can stretch more than half-a-mile from end-to-end.

To uncover the hidden features, researchers employed a sophisticated technique. New research presented at the Europlanet Science Congress this week has uncovered astonishing findings beneath the dusty surface of Mars.