Palus Putredinis

The Marsh of Decay, a mare region on the southeastern edge of Mare Imbrium, between the Montes Apenninus and Montes Haemus.

Object Type: Lunar Palus (Marsh)

Size: 180 km north-south extent

Location: Chattanooga, TN (35.15°N, 85.32°W)

Equipment: Telescope (750/150mm)

Visual Description

Palus Putredinis appeared as an irregular dark mare region nestled between mountain ranges on the southeastern shore of Mare Imbrium. The feature showed typical mare basalt characteristics with its smooth, dark surface. The palus was bordered by the impressive Montes Apenninus to the south and served as the landing site for Apollo 15, one of the most geologically interesting regions visited during the Apollo program.

Notable Features

  • Mare region between mountain ranges
  • Southeastern edge of Mare Imbrium
  • Smooth basaltic surface
  • Bordered by Montes Apenninus
  • Apollo 15 landing site

Notes

  • Name means “Marsh of Decay”
  • Historic Apollo 15 landing location (1971)
  • Best observed 9-10 days after new moon
  • Coordinates: 26.5°N, 0.4°E
  • Excellent target for studying mare-highland contact