Sample-based Spectral Mapping around Landing Sites on the Moon—Lunar Timescale Part 1

Abstract Studying the geology of a terrestrial body and its evolution requires being able to set up chronology. Crater statistics is powerful tool do so. However, calibration this method, which derived on Moon, properly defined geological units, large enough for reliable crater statistics, dated samples representative these units. Yet, little effort has been put into choosing lunar mission units based spectral information. Therefore, accuracy precision so-called cratering-chronology models remain limited. Here, we analyzed near-infrared orbital data suggest unit as reference Apollo 11, 12, 14–17 Luna 16, 20, 24 landing sites. We used information from laboratory measurements identify that most landing-site now provide spectrally constrained frequencies can be derived, our sample recommendation will assign age updating currently existing models. highlight determining in highlands Moon challenging because very nature terrain, while it more straightforward mare ejecta presence comprises solvable challenges.