Photogeology of the dark material in the Taurus-Littrow region of the moon

Baerbel K. Lucchitta

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USGS · 70200522

Photogeology of the dark material in the Taurus-Littrow region of the moon

Baerbel K. Lucchitta

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Abstract

Regional relations and characteristics of the dark material as observed on photographs of the Taurus-Littrow region of the moon are reviewed to provide a background for interpretations of its nature and origin. The dark material seems to be a surficial deposit that covers mare and highland areas near the southeastern edge of the Serenitatis Basin. The age of the dark material, as deduced from photogeologic analysis, is ambiguous: contact relations near its western edge suggest that it is older than the central light basalts of Mare Serenitatis; evidence elsewhere indicates that it may be younger. The origin of the dark material is also uncertain, and the following alternate hypotheses are briefly considered: (1) thick regolith, (2) dark impact ejecta, (3) pyroclastic blanket, or (4) a material of different origin in different places.

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Baerbel K. Lucchitta. 1973. Photogeology of the dark material in the Taurus-Littrow region of the moon. https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/70200522

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