Whenever the full moon shines high in the sky, it’s hard to ignore the significant impact craters that adorn its surface. One of the largest craters located on the northeastern part of the moon, which often draws the attention of casual observers and astronomers alike, is the Plato Crater. So, what is the Plato Crater? Well, delve in to discover the fascinating aspects of this lunar landmark.
Plato Crater’s Latitude, Longitude, and Diameter
Named after the Ancient Greek philosopher Plato, the crater Plato is a large, nearly circular crater that resides at a latitude of 51.6 N, longitude 9.3 W, with an estimated diameter of about 101 kilometers or 63 miles. This makes it one of the most sizable craters that we can observe from Earth.
The Charismatic Physical Features
The allure of the Plato Crater lies prominently in its physical attributes. The remarkable flat floor of Plato, the surrounding rugged terrain that juxtaposes its smoothness, and its rim are the key features that set it apart from other lunar craters.
At different illumination angles, Plato’s floor radiates a relatively low albedo, rendering it darker than nearby areas on the lunar surface. The crater floor, spanning a wide stretch of about 60 miles across, mysteriously lacks a central peak commonly found in large craters. Instead, it is a vast flat plain, punctuated only by several centrally located small craterlets.
The surrounding rim of Plato is known for its complex and rugged nature, boasting a number of towering mountain ranges like the Montes Alps to the south, and Montes Teneriffe to the west. At the northeastern shore of the rim, you’ll find the Mare Frigoris, while the Mare Imbrium lies to the south. Some of the Rimae Plato, or rilles, are believed to be the result of past slumping of the Plato’s rim due to billion years old lava flows.
Observing the Plato Crater
The Plato Crater is among the most popular sites for astronomers found on lunar maps. Its features become starkly visible as the moon’s phase progresses toward full moon. Interestingly, when the sun’s altitude increases, this causes Plato’s appearance to change drastically due to changing sun angles.
Examples of this are the long shadows that stretch across the crater floor during the moon’s first and last quarter. The western extremity of the rim can project prominent shadows during the early or later stages of the lunar day, providing a visual spectacle for viewers.
Plato’s dark floor, heavily contrasting with the brightness of the surrounding lunar terrain, makes it a distinctive feature, even at low-angle illumination. Its observable surface details, such as the small craterlets scattered across the dark floor, however, may sometimes be compromised due to the hazy visibility conditions caused by gradual darkening over the crater.
Significant Impact Craters: Satellite craters
Adding to the allure of the Plato Crater are intriguing satellite craters that dwell in its vicinity. These craters, each named after the great philosopher using alphabetical labels like ‘Plato B’ or ‘Plato C’ are part of Plato’s story. By observing these craters from different illumination angles, one can see the relationship between Plato and the surrounding lunar landscape.
The Influence on Scientific Study
Owing to its unique physical and geological features, Plato Crater has served as an essential subject in scientific research within the realms of lunar geology and planetary science. Countless studies and explorations continue to unravel its secrets.
The British Astronomical Association, for instance, has published systematic visual studies over the years discussing the unusual color patterns of Plato. They propose multiple feasible hypotheses including varied metallic content in the basalts of the lava plain, changes in the lunar regolith, and even viewing conditions on Earth.
A Final Thought: What is the Plato Crater?
The Plato Crater is not just a lunar feature but an exciting tool for comprehending our planet’s satellite structures and geology. By understanding and studying these significant impact craters, we can learn more about the natural processes of the moon, and perhaps other bodies in the solar system. After all, that’s the beauty of gazing at the night sky; there’s always more to discover.
The Plato Crater, with its unique features, its intriguing satellite craters, and its prominent shadows cast by the rim at different illumination angles, is undoubtedly the sparkling gem in celestial explorations beckoning us to delve into the mysteries of the universe. Each look at this significant lunar landmark on the northeastern shore of the moon allows us to better appreciate its role in popular astronomy. There’s no better tribute to the ancient Greek philosopher Plato than this cosmic namesake continuing to inspire curiosity about the cosmos.
The Plato Crater, with its dark floor, captive flatness, and the dramatic shadows across the crater enhancing its surface textures, further reinforced by the hazy visibility that draws an enigmatic veil over its exact nature, represents the alluring mystery that the cosmos holds for mankind. The next time you catch sight of the moon, spare a thought (and a look) for the Plato Crater.