REVIEW OF LUNAR INFRARED OBSERVATIONS
Abstract
Prior to 1960 the lunar surface was known to be highly insulating from the low temperatures observed during an eclipse and the lunar night. Directional effects in the infrared emission from the illuminated surface were understood to result from roughness. In 1960, a number of ray craters were shown to cool more slowly than their environs during an eclipse. Subsequently, this behavior was observed during the lunar night for both ray craters and certain other features. In 1964, the entire disk was scanned during a total eclipse, revealing the presence of hundreds of 'hot spots.' These anomalies have been identified with a variety of geological features. The current status of the thermophysical and geological interpretations of this discovery is discussed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0645548
Entities
People
- J. M. Saari
- R. W. Shorthill
Organizations
- Boeing