The nature of circular maria based on gravity studies.Current thinking on the evolution of major lunar morphological features, i.e., large lunar circular basins, and on the nature and origin of surface structures observed in the fill deposits is summarized. The great lunar circular basins must result from high-velocity impact of large bodies with the moon. A hydrostatic mechanism is outlined, and a working hypothesis is presented for the evolution of lunar circular basins subsequent to their origin by impact. In the main appeal is made to Doppler gravity data to support the hypothesis, although photographic and altimetric information is also used. It is considered that all large ringed circular basins follow a common evolutionary path of superisostatic volcanic flooding followed by partial and variable isostatic adjustment. The difference between basins is the amount of flooding, which in turn may be related to the center of figure-center of mass offset of the moon.
Document ID
19730051150
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Phillips, R. J.
Conel, J. E.
Sjogren, W. L. (California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 7, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1973
Subject Category
Space Sciences
Meeting Information
Meeting: Plenary Meeting on The near ultraviolet spectrum of early type stars obtained with S 59