Aristarchus

The brightest feature on the Moon, a young crater with an extensive ray system in the Aristarchus Plateau.

Visual Description

Aristarchus appeared as the single brightest spot on the entire lunar surface, immediately drawing the eye. The crater showed brilliant white walls and floor, creating a dramatic beacon on the otherwise darker Oceanus Procellarum region. The crater’s terraced walls and central peak were visible, and its extreme brightness was striking even at low magnification.

Notable Features

• Brightest feature on the Moon (highest albedo)
• Excellent terraced walls
• Small central peak
• Extensive ray system
• Located on the Aristarchus Plateau

Notes

• Named after Greek astronomer Aristarchus of Samos
• Best observed 10-12 days after new moon
• Visible to the naked eye as a bright spot
• Coordinates: 23.7°N, 47.4°W
• Only about 450 million years old