Mapping moon craters: Scientific knowledge from 1965 to 2022: Systematic review

Abstract

This systematic review examines development of techniques used in lunar crater mapping between 1965 and 2022. Using the Web of Science and Google Scholar databases, the systematic review adhered to specific criteria that focus on post-1965 research articles in English. Through using Boolean operations and guided by the PRISMA Framework, the search yielded 20 pertinent articles. The findings reveal that from 1965 to 1980, techniques like radar and infrared mapping were used, alongside the Lunar Radar Sounder for subsurface studies and terrain mapping to analyse surface roughness and topography. Contour maps helped in understanding lunar magnetic fields. Between 1981 and 2000, lunar mapping evolved to include gamma-ray spectrometry for elemental analysis, electron reflection studies for crustal magnetic field analysis, cratering records for comparative planetology, lander-rover systems for resource exploration and laser ranging for asteroid studies. From 2001 to 2022, advancements included automatic crater detection algorithms, comprehensive lunar characteristic reviews from recent missions and remote sensing for detailed crater analysis. High-resolution data provided views into crater composition and morphology and aid in small crater cataloguing and depth-to-diameter measurements mainly at the Lunar South Pole. The discussion section highlights those initial telescopic observations gave way to quantitative studies during the Space Age. Modern developments include rovers, high-resolution cameras and advanced algorithms for geological analysis. Calibration methods (e.g., the Robotic Lunar Observatory ROLO model, GIRO (Global Space-based Inter-Calibration System), and radiance calibration) have also been critical. This technological evolution has enhanced understanding of the Moon and its role in the solar system.