Copernicus Crater
Copernicus Crater is a prominent lunar impact crater named after the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus. Here are detailed insights into this significant lunar feature:
Location and Size
- Copernicus Crater is situated in the eastern part of the Oceanus Procellarum, near the Mare Imbrium.
- It has a diameter of approximately 93 kilometers (58 miles), making it one of the more significant craters on the Moon.
- The depth of the crater is about 3.8 kilometers (2.36 miles).
Formation
- The crater was formed by an impact event that is believed to have occurred during the Eratosthenian Period, around 800 million years ago.
- The impactor was likely an asteroid or comet, and the energy released by the impact created the crater and its extensive ray system.
Structure and Features
- Copernicus Crater has a complex structure with terraced walls, a central peak, and an extensive system of bright rays that extend for hundreds of kilometers across the lunar surface.
- The central peak rises about 800 meters above the crater floor and is composed of material uplifted from deep beneath the lunar surface.
- The crater's rim is characterized by high albedo, making it easily distinguishable from its surroundings, especially when viewed through a telescope.
Scientific Interest
- Copernicus Crater has been a focal point for lunar geological studies due to its relatively young age and well-preserved features.
- It was visited by the Lunar Orbiter 2 in 1966, which provided detailed photographs of the crater and its surroundings.
- The Apollo Missions also used Copernicus Crater as a navigational landmark, and samples thought to be ejected from Copernicus were collected from the Apollo 12 landing site.
Observation
- Due to its high albedo and ray system, Copernicus Crater is one of the most conspicuous features on the Moon, visible even with small telescopes from Earth.
- It is best observed when the terminator (the line between the sunlit and dark portions of the Moon) passes through it, highlighting its relief through shadows.
Sources:
Similar Topics: