Palus Epidemiarum

The Marsh of Epidemics, a small mare region on the southwestern nearside, southwest of Mare Nubium.

Visual Description

Palus Epidemiarum appeared as an irregular dark patch southwest of the larger Mare Nubium. The feature showed the typical smooth, dark mare surface formed by ancient lava flows. The palus was bordered by highland terrain and connected to Mare Nubium to the northeast, serving as an extension of that major mare basin. The crater Ramsden was visible on its northern edge.

Notable Features

• Irregular mare patch southwest of Mare Nubium
• Smooth basaltic surface
• Bordered by highlands
• Crater Ramsden on northern edge
• Connected to larger mare system

Notes

• Name means “Marsh of Epidemics”
• Part of the southwestern mare complex
• Best observed 9-11 days after new moon
• Coordinates: 32.0°S, 28.0°W
• Visible with binoculars under good conditions