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Application of ring tectonic theory to Mercury and other solar system bodiesIt is pointed out that multiringed structures, by their presence or absence, provide a powerful tool for deciphering the thermal histories of the solid planets. The theory of ring tectonics considered by Melosh and McKinnon (1978) and Melosh et al. (1980) establishes the framework of that undertaking. The present investigation has the objective to apply this conceptualization in detail to the multiringed basins on Mercury, taking into account also a brief review concerning the current state of understanding of ring tectonics on the moon, Mars, earth, Ganymede, and Callisto. The small, icy satellites of Saturn are also discussed. The mechanics of multiple ring formation are related to the collapse of the transient basin cavity when the excavation depth and lithosphere thickness are comparable. Attention is given to the Caloris Basin on Mercury, the peak ring basins on Mercury, and the Argyre Basin on Mars.
Document ID
19820055517
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Mckinnon, W. B.
(Arizona, University Tucson, AZ, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1981
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Meeting Information
Meeting: Multi-ring basins: Formation and evolution
Location: Houston, TX
Start Date: November 10, 1980
End Date: November 12, 1980
Accession Number
82A39052
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7146
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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