Research on Lunar Mare Emplacement and Impact Cratering Experiments

摘要

A model was derived enabling the interpretation of lunar styles of volcanism through the analysis of various surface features. The model was applied to several areas on the Moon, including the Orientale Basin, the Smythii Basin, the Herigonious region, and several highland areas. Concurrent with the application of the model, several topical studies of various aspects of lunar volcanism were completed. A series of impact crater experiments was conducted at NASA Ames in order to determine the effect that viscous targets would have on cratering mechanics and morphology for application in studies of Martian ejecta flow craters. The results of the experiments led to a model that can account for the formation of multiple flow lobes and the general morphology of some aspects of Martian craters.