Comparative Study of Compensation Mechanism of Lunar Impact Basins

Abstract

On the basis of the gravity model of the Moon developed by SELENE (Kaguya), we propose new classification and compensation mechanism of lunar impact basins. Impact basins on lunar far side and limb are classified into Type I and II basins. Most typical mascons are referred as primary mascon basins. Topographic depression and rim of both Type I and II basins show good correlation between topography and free-air gravity anomaly suggesting elastic support of lunar lithosphere. Central gravity high of Type I basin is a result of mantle uplift at the time of basin formation. Free-air anomalies at the center of Type II basins are lower than Bouguer anomalies indicating brittle deformation of the basins.