Abstract
In this paper, we present a study comparing the depth to diameter (d/D) ratio of small simple craters (200–1000 m) of an area between −88.5° to −90° latitude at the lunar south pole containing Permanent Shadowed Regions (PSRs) versus craters without PSRs. As PSRs can reach temperatures of 110 K and are capable of harboring volatiles, especially water ice, we analyzed the relationship of depth versus diameter ratios and its possible implications for harboring water ice. Variations in the d/D ratios can also be caused by other processes such as degradation, isostatic adjustment, or differences in surface properties. The conducted d/D ratio analysis suggests that a differentiation between craters containing PSRs versus craters without PSRs occurs. Thus, a possible direct relation between d/D ratio, PSRs, and water ice harboring might exist. Our results suggest that differences in the target’s surface properties may explain the obtained results. The resulting d/D ratios of craters with PSRs can help to select target areas for future In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) missions.
Highlights
Received: 15 November 2021Volatile characterization on the lunar surface is ongoing research that started over 50 years ago
This study focuses on the analysis of the depth to diameter characteristics of small simple craters that might contain water ice in a Region of Interest (RoI) at the lunar south pole between −88.5° to −90° latitude (Figure 1)
The results show that the average depth to diameter (d/D) ratio is smaller for craters with Permanent Shadowed Regions (PSRs) (d/D∼0.16) than without PSRs (d/D∼0.22)
Summary
Volatile characterization on the lunar surface is ongoing research that started over 50 years ago. This study focuses on the analysis of the depth to diameter characteristics of small simple craters that might contain water ice in a Region of Interest (RoI) at the lunar south pole between −88.5° to −90° latitude (Figure 1). This area (Figure 2) is a candidate landing site for future lunar exploration missions (De Rosa et al [42], Kokhanov et al [43], and Lemelin et al [44]). The primary objective of our investigation is to analyze the d/D ratios small simple craters that fulfill good volatile harboring conditions on the Moon
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
