On the origin of fractures radial to lunar basins.
Abstract
In this paper we analyze the stability of a large crater or basin on the moon's surface. We find that even for rather large depth/diameter ratios (up to 1/6) the basin is statically stable against collapse if the moon is treated as a Coulomb solid with zero cohesion. Mechanical failure occurs when creep in the interior of the moon relieves stress at depth while the moon's crust behaves elastically. This stress relaxation is accompanied by updoming of the region around the basin and the formation of radial tensional joints or faults. These fractures extend several radii away from the original basin. The formation of a system of radial fractures is thus a natural consequence of the excavation of a sufficiently large basin.
- Publication:
-
Lunar and Planetary Science Conference Proceedings
- Pub Date:
- April 1976
- Bibcode:
- 1976LPSC....7.2967M
- Keywords:
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- Lunar Craters;
- Lunar Surface;
- Meteorite Craters;
- Selenology;
- Structural Properties (Geology);
- Crustal Fractures;
- Geological Faults;
- Lunar Crust;
- Stress Relaxation;
- Terrain Analysis;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration