Crater size-frequency distribution measurements and age of the Compton–Belkovich Volcanic Complex

Abstract

The Compton–Belkovich Volcanic Complex (CBVC) is a 25×35km feature on the lunar farside marked by elevated topography, high albedo, high thorium concentration, and high silica content. Morphologies indicate that the complex is volcanic in origin and compositions indicate that it represents rare silicic volcanism on the Moon. Constraining the timing of silicic volcanism at the complex is necessary to better understand the development of evolved magmas and when they were active on the lunar surface. We employ image analysis and crater size-frequency distribution (CSFD) measurements on several locations within the complex and at surrounding impact craters, Hayn (87km diameter), and Compton (160km diameter), to determine relative and absolute model ages of regional events. Using CSFD measurements, we establish a chronology dating regional resurfacing events and the earliest possible onset of CBVC volcanism at ∼3.8Ga, the formation of Compton Crater at 3.6Ga, likely resurfacing by volcanism at the CBVC at ∼3.5Ga, and the formation of Hayn Crater at ∼1Ga. For the CBVC, we find the most consistent results are obtained using craters larger than 300m in diameter; the small crater population is affected by their approach to an equilibrium condition and by the physical properties of regolith at the CBVC.