Buried Silicic Volcanoes Discovered in the Gruithuisen Region on the Moon

Abstract

AbstractMons Gruithuisen is a rare example of nonmare silicic volcanoes on the Moon. We have conducted analyses of the topography, chemical compositions, and subsurface structures of the Gruithuisen region based on remote sensing and gravity data. Our findings include presence of newly detected magma chambers in addition to the previously identified silicic domes in Gruithuisen Region. Our analysis suggests that multiple phases of silicic volcanism have occurred in the Gruithuisen region. The subsurface density revealed by the gravity data also suggests the presence of several low‐density masses in the crust. These early‐formed silicic volcanoes at low elevations are overlain by later‐emplaced mare basalts, however, the side slopes of these volcanoes are not covered by mare basalts, and the low‐FeO abundance material is exposed on the lunar surface.