Multi-Platform Integrated Analysis of the Degradation Patterns of Impact Crater Populations on the Lunar Surface

Abstract

Following the processing of the Chang’e-4 satellite images, Chang’e-4 landing camera images, and Yutu-2 panoramic camera images, data were obtained in a variety of resolutions, including digital elevation model (DEM) and digital orthophoto map (DOM). By determining the morphological parameters, including the depths and diameters of impact craters in the study area, as well as their degradation classes based on surface texture features, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the morphological parameters and population degradation patterns of impact craters from multiple platforms. The data from three platforms were employed to identify 12,089 impact craters with diameters ranging from 0.1 m to 800.0 m, which were then classified into five degradation classes based on their morphology in the images. This study indicates that as the size of impact craters increases, the population within them experiences a greater degree of degradation. However, the severe degradation of impact craters with diameters of less than 1 m or even 2 m is influenced by the rapid rate of degradation of the crater and the low solidity of the crater lips. The results of the equilibrium state of impact craters indicate that for sub-metre-sized impact craters (with diameters below 2.0 m), it is challenging to reach equilibrium. Furthermore, the smaller the impact crater, the more difficult it is to achieve equilibrium, which is probably the result of simpler generation conditions and the faster degradation of small impact craters.