A comparison of infrared, radar, and geologic mapping of lunar craters

The Moon
By: , and 

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Abstract

Between 1000 and 2000 infrared (eclipse) and radar anomalies have been mapped on the nearside hemisphere of the Moon. A study of 52 of these anomalies indicates that most are related to impact craters and that the nature of the infrared and radar responses is compatible with a previously developed geologic model of crater aging processes. The youngest craters are pronounced thermal and radar anomalies; that is, they have enhanced eclipse temperatures and are strong radar scatterers. With increasing crater age, the associated thermal and radar responses become progressively less noticeable until they assume values for the average lunar surface. The last type of anomaly to disappear is radar enhancement at longer wavelengths. A few craters, however, have infrared and radar behaviors not predicted by the aging model. One previously unknown feature - a field strewn with centimeter-sized rock fragments - has been identified by this technique of comparing maps at the infrared, radar, and visual wavelengths.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title A comparison of infrared, radar, and geologic mapping of lunar craters
Series title The Moon
DOI 10.1007/BF00562019
Volume 10
Issue 1
Year Published 1974
Language English
Publisher Springer
Description 31 p.
First page 87
Last page 117
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