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Tuesday, August 13, 2019

August 13, 1960: Lunar Survey

On this date in lunar exploration history, the U.S. Geological Survey completed the first lunar "photo-geological survey."

The photo study of the moon's surface was part of a program to find safe lunar landing sites for both robots and manned spacecraft.

Eugene M. Shoemaker founded the Branch of Astrogeology and compiled the geology of the Copernicus region onto an experimental standardized map (image below).

My source says:
"Although a small portion of this map was reproduced in color in the November, 1963 issue of Fortune magazine, we are pleased to present this special, unseen bit of space history to lunar students everywhere."

More info here: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/astrogeology-science-center/science/1961-usgs-astrogeologys-first-published-map

Eugene Shoemaker's prototype Copernicus geology map. 
It was never formally published.  Image: USGS.gov


What is your favorite part of the moon? Tell me what you think at

RamoneRocketeer -at- gmail -dot- com.

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