Lunar domes & volcanic constructs in Mare Fecunditatis
Abstract
In this study we examine five lunar domes in Mare Fecunditatis. These domes, termed Messier 3-7, have moderate diameters between 5.6 and 15km, with slopes of between 3.2° (Messier 4), 1.5-1.6° (Messier 5-6) and 0.5-0.87° (Messier 7 & 3). Based on rheologic models, we infer the physical conditions under which the domes were formed (lava viscosity, effusion rate and magma rise speed) as well as the geometries of the feeder dikes, comparing them with the domes Messier 1-2 described previously by Lena et al. (127(6), 338-349, 2017). Furthermore, we have identified and characterised three lunar cones and several small 'ring moat dome' structures. These structures have recently been identified as widespread on the maria and are thought to be volcanic in nature, possibly involving the extrusion of magmatic foam.
- Publication:
-
Journal of the British Astronomical Association
- Pub Date:
- August 2020
- Bibcode:
- 2020JBAA..130..219L