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Fourier analysis of planimetric lunar crater shape - Possible guide to impact history and lunar geologyIf the lithology of lunar crust influences impact crater morphology, a method of analysis that is sensitive to small-scale changes in crater shape is required. In the present paper, it is shown that Fourier analysis in closed form can provide detailed information regarding planimetric crater shape. Preliminary analysis of the rim crest outline of 247 nearside lunar craters (larger than 18 km in diam) led to the following information: Imbrian and pre-Imbrian craters are more elongate than younger craters, possibly as a result of widespread crustal deformation early in the moon's history. Crater size does not affect the planimetric shape of craters. Highland craters are less circular than mare craters, probably due to the greater structural and lithologic complexity of the highland crust. Craters comprising each shape family of the eleventh harmonic typically are located in the same general geographic region of the moon.
Document ID
19780060141
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Eppler, D. T.
(South Carolina Univ. Columbia, SC, United States)
Nummedal, D.
(South Carolina Univ. Columbia, SC, United States)
Ehrlich, R.
(South Carolina, University Columbia, S.C., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1977
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Meeting Information
Meeting: Symposium on Planetary Cratering Mechanics
Location: Flagstaff, AZ
Start Date: September 13, 1976
End Date: September 17, 1976
Accession Number
78A44050
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7076
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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