Global tectonic patterns of the Moon

Planetary tectonics provide a record of the myriad processes that shape planetary surfaces and interiors. While there is long history mapping modeling tectonics, stresses from disparate are not generally captured by single model. We present comprehensive general stress model can consider multiple stress-generating mechanisms simultaneously. The applicable to mass loading with arbitrary geometry, rotational orbital perturbations, elastic lithosphere thicknesses. This wholistic approach tectonic has important implications for understanding both lunar evolution across solar system. apply this Moon, which exhibits global pattern thrust faults. ubiquitous presence young faults suggests isotropic contraction plays dominant role. However, their non-random orientation requires additional isotropic. Best-fit solutions correspond models combining orbit recession, despinning, South Pole-Aitken ejecta corresponding true polar wander. Contraction despinning assuming an shell thinner equatorial region lead misfits smaller than those constant thickness shell. age favors recent recession; however, unrelaxed older combined contractional also generate possibility supported Moon's ability preserve fossil figure.