Lunar features provide a valuable interpretation data base for comparison with features on other planets which are believed to have been formed by the cratering process. The paper adopts the comparative approach by examining the smooth plains of the moon and Mercury, with special emphasis on crater degradation on the moon, Mercury, and Mars. A possible cause for the observed deficiency of craters with diameters no more than 50 km on certain areas of lunar uplands and on the entire uplands of Mercury and Mars is discussed. It is suggested that pertinent differences can be predicted on the basis of new concepts for production population and of effects of changes in planetary conditions on the secondary cratering process. It is concluded that the deficiency of craters with diameters no more than 50 km on parts of the lunar uplands and on the Mercurian and Martian uplands may be evidence for a deficiency in production of primary craters in this size range. Origin of the late heavy bombardment in the inner solar system is examined.
Comparative studies of Lunar, Martian, and Mercurian craters and plains
1977-04-10
Miscellaneous
No indication
English
Origin and Character of the Lunar and Mercurian Atmospheres
Online Contents | 1997
|NTIS | 1971
|Origin and Character of the Lunar and Mercurian Atmospheres
British Library Conference Proceedings | 1997
|Degradation studies of Martian impact craters
NTRS | 1991
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