Lunar domes & volcanic constructs in Mare Fecunditatis

In this study we examine five lunar domes in Mare Fecunditatis. These domes, termed Messier 3–7, have moderate diameters between 5.6 and 15km, with slopes of between 3.2° (Messier 4), 1.5–1.6° (Messier 5–6) and 0.5–0.87° (Messier 7 & 3). Based on rheologic models, we infer the physical conditions under which the domes were formed (lava viscosity, effusion rate and magma rise speed) as well as the geometries of the feeder dikes, comparing them with the domes Messier 1–2 described previously by Lena et al. (127(6), 338–349, 2017). Furthermore, we have identified and characterised three lunar cones and several small ‘ring moat dome’ structures. These structures have recently been identified as widespread on the maria and are thought to be volcanic in nature, possibly involving the extrusion of magmatic foam.

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The astronomical observations & connections of Henry Prescott (1649–1719)

Henry Prescott lived during the second half of the seventeenth century and early part of the eighteenth century in Chester, Cheshire. Although not an astronomer, Henry was moved to record a number of astronomical observations in his diary after witnessing some spectacular celestial events. This fact was remarked on as an aside by a speaker at a local history lecture attended by the author, sparking his desire to research what these observations were. Finding out more about Henry and his observations has been an enjoyable journey, with some connections Henry had with well-known astronomers of the day identified along the way. This paper reviews these observations and connections, while also including side stories involving some of Henry’s associates. Brief references are made in some cases to other people’s observations of the events reported by Henry in his diary, to provide confirmation and supporting information.

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