Von der Pahlen Crater: A Worn Landmark of the Lunar Far Side
Hidden from Earth's view on the far side of the Moon lies Von der Pahlen, an ancient impact crater that serves as a testament to the violent history of the lunar surface. Named after Emanuel von der Pahlen, this feature is a prime example of how subsequent cosmic collisions reshape the lunar landscape over billions of years.
Located at coordinates 24°48′S 132°42′W, Von der Pahlen is situated in a region characterized by heavy bombardment. Its position on the far side means it can only be observed via orbiting spacecraft, providing astronomers with critical data on the Moon's geological evolution.
Geographic Context and Neighbors
Von der Pahlen does not exist in isolation; it is part of a cluster of significant lunar features. To its north-northeast, approximately one crater diameter away, lies the crater Strömgren. Moving further south, the landscape is dominated by the larger crater Chebyshev, while the crater Das is positioned to the west-southwest.
Physical Characteristics and Erosion
With a diameter of 56 kilometers, Von der Pahlen was once a distinct impact site. However, it is now classified as an eroded crater, meaning its original sharp features have been worn down by the continuous rain of smaller meteoroids over time.
The Rim and Interior
The crater's rim is no longer a crisp circle; instead, it has become rounded due to impact erosion. The interior and the rim are heavily battered and pockmarked with smaller craters. Notable features include:
- A small crater attached to the exterior of the southeast rim.
- The remnants of another similar-sized crater along the southern edge.
- Numerous small craterlets scattered across the northwest, west, and southwestern edges.
- A single small craterlet located almost exactly at the crater's midpoint.
Key Facts
- Diameter: 56 km
- Location: Far side of the Moon (24.8°S 132.7°W)
- Eponym: Named after Emanuel von der Pahlen
- Condition: Heavily eroded and battered by subsequent impacts
- Colongitude: 134° at sunrise
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 56 km |
| Depth | Unknown |
| Coordinates | 24°48′S 132°42′W |
| Nearby Craters | Strömgren, Chebyshev, Das |
| Surface State | Eroded/Battered |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Von der Pahlen located?
Von der Pahlen is located on the far side of the Moon, specifically at the coordinates 24°48′S 132°42′W.
How large is the Von der Pahlen crater?
The crater has a measured diameter of 56 kilometers.
What is the current state of the crater's rim?
The rim is heavily worn and rounded due to impact erosion, with several small craterlets attached to or embedded in the edges, particularly to the southeast and south.
Which other craters are near Von der Pahlen?
It is located near the crater Strömgren to the north-northeast, Chebyshev to the south, and Das to the west-southwest.
Who is the crater named after?
The crater is named after Emanuel von der Pahlen.