Lunar red spots: Possible pre-mare materials |
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| Authors: | Michael C Malin |
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| Institution: | Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, Calif. USA |
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| Abstract: | Some anomalous red features observed on the moon by Whitaker are examined in detail. Crater counts and regional stratigraphy suggest that ages for these features are comparable to that of lunar highland material. Initial gamma-ray spectrometry indicates higher than average native radioactivity is associated with certain red areas. A possible explanation for these observations is that the red objects are the surface manifestation of highly radioactive pre-mare basalts (Apollo 14/KREEP/norite material). Conclusive proof of the nature of these objects will depend on the study of returned samples, making them ideal candidates for future space missions, especially for unmanned vehicles such as the Soviet Union's Luna 20. |
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