ANALYSIS OF DARK MANTLE DEPOSITS ON THE SOUTHEASTERN LIMB OF THE MOON USING LROC AND CLEMENTINE SPECTRAL REFLECTANCE DATA

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Author Names and Affiliations

First Name:

J. Olaf

Last Name:

Gustafson

Institution:

Cornell University

Co-authors:

J. F. Bell III, Astronomy Dept., Cornell University, USA

Co-authors:

L. R. Gaddis, Astrogeology Program, US Geological Survey, USA

Co-authors:

B. R. Hawke, Hawaii Institute of Geophysics and Planetology, University of Hawaii, USA

Co-authors:

M. S. Robinson, School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, USA

Co-authors:

LROC Science Team

Numerous dark-mantle deposits of possible pyroclastic origin have been identified on the Moon. Many of these, especially smaller localized deposits, have not been examined in sufficient detail to enable accurate determination of their mode of emplacement (i.e., explosive or effusive). At many locations both types of volcanic deposits may exist side by side. Clementine color (UVVIS) and LRO Wide Angle (WAC, 7 bands, 100 to 400 m/p) and Narrow Angle (NAC, ~0.5 m/p) camera data provide the means to investigate dark-mantle deposits on the southeastern limb of the Moon. Ten previously mapped deposits in or near craters Petavius, Humboldt, Abel B, Abel C, Barnard, and Titius were examined. The goal was to characterize the nature of deposit margins, any visible vents and flow features, thicknesses, and compositional variations within and between deposits, in order to support conclusions regarding the mode of emplacement. We conclude there is evidence for a component of effusive emplacement at several locations currently considered to be possible pyroclastic deposits, and in some cases evidence for multiple emplacement episodes. We were also able to constrain the deposit thicknesses at some locations.

Presenter Information

First Name:

J. Olaf

Last Name:

Gustafson

Affiliation:

Cornell University