A New Geological Map of the Bose and Bhabha region in the South Pole-Aitken Basin, Moon

We present a detailed geologic mapping of the Bose and Bhabha crater region within the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) Basin on the farside of the Moon. This area is of significant scientific interest due to the presence of diverse geological features. The SPA Basin is thought excavate material from the lunar crust or mantle [1,2], and has been a priority for exploration, prompting numerous mission studies [e.g., 3]. The mapping was conducted using standard geologic mapping protocols [4,5] with LROC Wide Angle Camera data [6], LOLA/SELENE digital elevation models [7], and Clementine spectral data [8]. The analysis identified various geological units, including Pre-Nectarian and Nectarian materials, which represent ancient highland remnants and heavily degraded craters. Additionally, Imbrian-aged light and dark plains were identified, with the dark plains being interpreted as volcanic in origin. Eratosthenian craters, distinguished by their relatively recent morphology, were were delineated. Secondary crater chains formed across several periods; however, they are primarily observed during the Copernican period. Nevertheless, no primary Copernican craters were observed in the mapping region at the map scale. This comprehensive mapping effort provides critical information about the geological evolution of the SPA Basin and supports future mission planning, such as NASA's Endurance mission, by identifying key terrains and features of interest for exploration.

[1] Pieters et al. [2001] JGR, 106(E11), 28, 001-28,22. [2] Petro et al. (2011) GSA, 477, 129-140. [3] Jawin et al. (2019) ESS, 6. [4] FGDC (2006) FGDC-STD-013-2016. [5] Skinner et al., (2022) USGS, TM11-B13. [6] Robinson et al. (2010) Space Sci. Rev. 150, 81-124.  [7] Barker et al. (2016) Icarus 273, 346-355.  [8] Pieters et al. (1994) Science 266, 1844-1848. [9] Keane et al. (2021) MCSR, NASA