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The evolution of impact basins - Viscous relaxation of topographic reliefA topographic profile of the young large lunar basin, Orientale, is presented in order to examine the effects of viscous relaxation on basin topography. Analytical models for viscous flow are considered, showing a wavelength-dependence of time constants for viscous decay on the decrease in viscosity with depth and on the extent of the isostatic compensation of the initial topography. Lunar rheological models which are developed include a half-space model for uniform Newtonian viscosity, density, and gravitational acceleration, a layer over inviscid half space model with material inviscid over geological time scales, and a layer with isostatic compensation where a uniformly viscous layer overlies an inviscid half space of higher density. Greater roughness is concluded, and has been observed, on the moon's dark side due to continued lower temperatures since the time of heavy bombardment.
Document ID
19820049112
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Solomon, S. C.
(Massachusetts Inst. of Tech. Cambridge, MA, United States)
Comer, R. P.
(MIT Cambridge, MA, United States)
Head, J. W.
(Brown University Providence, RI, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
May 10, 1982
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 87
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
82A32647
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7297
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7081
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGR-40-002-116
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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