The dispersal of pyroclasts from ancient explosive volcanoes on Mars: Implications for the friable layered deposits

► Many fine-grained, friable deposits of unclear origin have been mapped on Mars. ► We test the feasibility of an origin by volcanic airfall using a global climate model. ► We model the dispersal of ash from candidate volcanic sources. ► We compare our model ash distributions with the geologic record. ► We conclude that some friable deposits can be formed by explosive volcanic processes.