Linear Crater Chains - Indication of a Volcanic Origin

A mathematical investigation of the alignment of the craters of the four best preserved lunar linear crater chains, which lack the characteristics expected if they were of secondary impact origin, shows that, first, the craters lie along the distinct lines with very small deviations. This suggests that the craters were formed along deep crustal fissures. Second, the strikes of the lines or fissures indicate that they are reactivated lunar grid system structures. Third, the morphology of the craters is similar to that of volcanic diatremes. These results, especially the excellent geometric alignment of the craters along the lines, all indicate that these linear crater chains are of volcanic origin.