Introduction
Scope
The narrowest definition of topography is the study of surface position and relief, although it is commonly broadened in a variety of ways. In this entry, in addition to the shape, position, and elevation of lunar surface features, we will include albedo features, since they are visible on images and can assist with interpretation of structural features. Examples will emphasize nearside features, although analogous features are found on the farside. Interpretation of the topography is also limited to what can be inferred from the topography alone.
Lunar Topographic Structures
Lunar topography can be described at several levels. The coarsest level is simply the overall shape of the moon. The next level is the distinction between the rugged highlands and the smoother, and generally lower, mare material. This is mainly a distinction between exposed lunar crust and lava-covered regions.
The most obvious topographic features are the maria, which are easily recognized by...
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Bailey, W. (2014). Topographic Studies of the Moon. In: Cudnik, B. (eds) Encyclopedia of Lunar Science. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-05546-6_6-1
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