Character and spatial distribution of mineralogy at the lunar south polar region

Abstract

The lunar south polar region, encompassing part of the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) basin, stands out as one of the most intriguing areas for future lunar exploration endeavors. Using the Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) data, we conducted a comprehensive investigation into the characteristics and distribution of minerals within the lunar south polar region, spanning from 80°S to the south pole. The cartographic outputs from this study, capable of delineating the composition and abundance of various minerals, have enabled the partitioning of the lunar south polar region into two distinct zones. The region situated within the inner ring of the SPA basin is characterized by an elevated abundance of low-Ca pyroxene, whereas the Feldspathic Highlands (FH) in the lunar south polar region and the outer ring of the SPA basin predominantly comprise feldspathic materials, albeit with localized pyroxene-rich areas. The dominant mafic component across the lunar south polar region is low-Ca pyroxene, with no evidence of olivine-rich materials being detected. The mineralogy of some candidate landing sites was illustrated and the hematite-bearing materials were observed at the rim of Shackleton and de Gerlache. Furthermore, we also identified an abundance plagioclase on the western rim of Shackleton. These findings underscore the significance of the lunar south polar region, not only as a promising locale for in situ resource utilization (ISRU) in forthcoming lunar missions but also as a key site for advancing our understanding of the Moon's geological evolution.