Composition and origin of the Apennine Bench FormationIntegration of stratigraphic relationships, geologic setting, surface morphology and remote sensing data suggest that the Apennine Bench Formation is composed of post-Imbrium basin volcanic KREEP basalt flows. This KREEP volcanism occurred shortly after the time of Imbrium basin formation and may have been triggered by the large basin impact which could have provided the structural 'plumbing' through which magma could reach the surface. There are indications that the Apennine Bench Formation may represent the largest surface exposure of highland (nonmare) volcanism preserved on the lunar surface and, as such, provides valuable insight into early lunar crustal processes.
Document ID
19790055274
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Spudis, P. D. (Arizona State University Tempe, Ariz., United States)