Rima Ariadaeus

[astroavani]

Rima Ariadaeus is one of several systems of linear channels nestled in the highlands between Mare Vaporum and Mare Tranquillitatis. Some channels, such as Vallis Schroteri, (https://www2.lpod.org/wiki/August_6,_2013), were formed by volcanic eruptions. Other channels, such as Rima Ariadaeus, are believed to be failures that formed as a result of tectonic activity. Some scientists believe that the linear channels may have formed after major impact events, while others believe that they were formed as a surface manifestation of deep dyke systems when the moon was still volcanically active. Experts agree that Rima Ariadaeus, about 300 km long, is a fault system similar to those on Earth. A large portion of Rima Ariadaeus is visible in this photo, and the same image shows (arrow 1) part of the escarpment of the canal failure. Rima Ariadaeus is 5 km wide and interrupts the pre-existing geological features. Stratigraphic relationships between the channel and other surface features can help determine whether the channel is older or younger than these features in relation to relative age. For example, the groove cuts a protrusion in the middle left of the frame (arrow 2), this relationship suggests that the channel is younger than the crest, because the channel has changed the shape of the crest. However, in the image, it is noted that there are small craters present at the bottom of the channel, which suggests that the channel is older than these overlapping craters. So also the small bridge (arrow 3), seems to have formed after the channel. These types of observations are used to examine stratigraphic relationships and the relative ages of landforms in this region, so that scientists can reconstruct the geological history of the moon. The Domes of Arago and Julius Caesar herself are a toast in an image that in itself is magnificent. Source: LROC / NASA Adaptation and Text: Avani Soares

https://cdn.astrobin.com/thumbs/eqYMr7fu35yD_1824x0_8Z_8nkNM.jpg

[maw lod qan]

Your Lunar images, their crisp sharp details are always incredible!

I enjoy them and the information you provide.

[Mr Spock]

Great write up - fascinating information. Image is also superb.

[kirkster501]

Lovely picture.

[Kon]

Impressive details!