Definition
Dunthorne (crater) is a lunar impact crater located on the Moon's surface.
Overview
Dunthorne is a small lunar crater situated in the southern portion of the Mare Fecunditatis, a lunar mare on the near side of the Moon. It lies to the northwest of the larger and more prominent crater Gutenberg. Due to its location on the Moon’s near side, Dunthorne is observable from Earth with appropriate equipment.
Etymology/Origin
The crater is named after Richard Dunthorne (1711–1775), an English astronomer and surveyor known for his early studies of tidal acceleration in the Moon's motion. The name "Dunthorne" was officially adopted by the International Astronomical Union (IAU), which is responsible for naming lunar features.
Characteristics
Dunthorne crater has a diameter of approximately 8 kilometers. It is relatively shallow and lacks distinctive ejecta or ray systems, indicating possible degradation over time due to subsequent impacts and lunar surface processes. The crater is surrounded by the relatively flat basaltic plains typical of lunar maria. Its coordinates are approximately 4.6°S latitude and 47.5°E longitude.
Related Topics
- Lunar geology
- Impact craters
- Mare Fecunditatis
- Richard Dunthorne (astronomer)
- International Astronomical Union (IAU) planetary nomenclature