Geologic mapping of the SPA west
R. Aileen YingstNASA Planetary Geology and GeophysicsGeologic Mapping of the SPA West Quadrangle of the Moon (Lunar Quadrangle 29) Constraining physical and mechanical models of lunar volcanic and impact-related processes requires a full inventory, characterization and stratigraphic analysis of associated units. To this end, we propose to construct a 1:2,500,000-scale map of Lunar Quadrangle 29 ("SPA West Quadrangle") to address outstanding science questions regarding the nature and stratigraphy of the Moon's impact record and volcanic activity. The science objectives of this investigation are:
1. Provide constraints on models of lunar volcanic generation and evolution by characterizing volcanic units in the unique bounding environment of western South Pole-Aitken Basin (SPA);
2. Provide constraints on the timing and sequence of impact events by characterizing the relationships, spatial associations and boundaries between impact-related surface materials and features found uniquely clustered in this region, including lower crustal material, structures antipodal to the Imbrium Basin, the compositionally-distinct thorium- and iron-rich SPA Terrane, and ancient cratered highlands;
3. Characterize the extent and distribution of units that are potentially important for future lunar missions, including potential sample sites that might yield high science return and resources derived from pyroclastic deposits.
A geologic map of western SPA will document the stratigraphy and structural geometry of the region, providing for the first time a tool for observing and analyzing patterns among recent, highly diverse datasets. It will provide information that can be used in defining boundary conditions for physical and mechanical models. This is especially significant as western SPA has many unique features relevant to both volcanic and basin-forming processes, all of which must be encompassed in such models. Additionally, SPA is considered a high-interest target for sample return. Mapping the region will also support future lunar science return by revealing the extent and distribution of units of interest for resource extraction and sampling.
1. Provide constraints on models of lunar volcanic generation and evolution by characterizing volcanic units in the unique bounding environment of western South Pole-Aitken Basin (SPA);
2. Provide constraints on the timing and sequence of impact events by characterizing the relationships, spatial associations and boundaries between impact-related surface materials and features found uniquely clustered in this region, including lower crustal material, structures antipodal to the Imbrium Basin, the compositionally-distinct thorium- and iron-rich SPA Terrane, and ancient cratered highlands;
3. Characterize the extent and distribution of units that are potentially important for future lunar missions, including potential sample sites that might yield high science return and resources derived from pyroclastic deposits.
A geologic map of western SPA will document the stratigraphy and structural geometry of the region, providing for the first time a tool for observing and analyzing patterns among recent, highly diverse datasets. It will provide information that can be used in defining boundary conditions for physical and mechanical models. This is especially significant as western SPA has many unique features relevant to both volcanic and basin-forming processes, all of which must be encompassed in such models. Additionally, SPA is considered a high-interest target for sample return. Mapping the region will also support future lunar science return by revealing the extent and distribution of units of interest for resource extraction and sampling.
