Morphological and mechanical characterization of gullies in a periglacial environment: The case of the Russell crater dune (Mars)

► This study highlights the role of the active layer as a potential water reservoir. ► The melt water from near-surface ground ice is incorporated in the debris flow. ► The water concentration increases during the debris flow progression. ► Increase in liquid water explains the lack of final deposits. ► A debris flows process can physically explain the formation of Martian gullies.