NASA | Counting Craters on the Moon

NASA scientists use the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter's Laser Altimeter to create a comprehensive catalog of large craters on the moon. By analyzing LOLA elevation data, they identify craters larger than 20 kilometers in diameter. The study reveals that in the moon's early history, there was a higher proportion of large impact craters compared to smaller ones, suggesting more significant impacts occurred. This research provides insights into the chaotic early days of the inner solar system, including Earth's history.

What tool do NASA scientists use to count craters on the moon?

• Hubble Space Telescope

• Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter's Laser Altimeter

• Mars Rover

• International Space Station

What is the minimum diameter of craters highlighted using LOLA elevation data?

• 10 kilometers

• 15 kilometers

• 20 kilometers

• 25 kilometers

What does the study of crater proportions on the moon suggest about its early history?

• Larger craters were more common than smaller ones.

• Crater sizes were uniform.

• There were more small craters than large ones.

• The moon had no craters initially.

What does the presence of larger craters on the moon indicate about the early solar system?

• It was a calm and stable period.

• It was a chaotic and turbulent time.

• There was no significant activity.

• The solar system was already fully formed.

How does the study of lunar craters help us understand Earth's history?

• It shows that Earth has no craters.

• It provides clues to Earth's early chaotic days.

• It indicates Earth was formed much later.

• It suggests Earth was always stable.