Definition
Viviani is an impact crater on the surface of the Moon that has been officially recognized and named by the International Astronomical Union (IAU).
Overview
The crater is listed in the IAU Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature as a lunar feature. It is classified as a small impact crater, typical of the numerous minor craters that dot the lunar highlands and maria. The naming follows the IAU convention of honoring deceased scholars who have contributed to the sciences, in this case, an individual named Viviani.
Etymology / Origin
The name “Viviani” commemorates Vincenzo Viviani (1622–1703), an Italian mathematician and disciple of Galileo Galilei, noted for his work in geometry and for publishing Galileo’s last works. The IAU adopted the name to recognize his contributions to the scientific heritage.
Characteristics
- Type: Impact crater
- Location: The exact selenographic coordinates are provided in the IAU Gazetteer (latitude and longitude).
- Diameter: The Gazetteer lists a diameter of approximately X kilometers. (If the precise measurement is unavailable, the entry notes that accurate information is not confirmed.)
- Depth: Specific depth measurements have not been published in the publicly available IAU data; therefore, accurate information is not confirmed.
- Morphology: As a small lunar crater, Viviani likely exhibits a simple bowl‑shaped profile without central peaks, typical of craters less than ~15 km in diameter.
Related Topics
- Lunar nomenclature – The system and conventions used by the IAU to name features on the Moon.
- Impact cratering – The geological process that creates craters on planetary bodies.
- Vincenzo Viviani – Italian mathematician after whom the crater is named.
- IAU Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature – The official database of named planetary surface features.
Note: Where specific numerical data (e.g., exact diameter or depth) are not available in the IAU Gazetteer or other authoritative sources, the entry indicates that accurate information is not confirmed.