
Ptolemaic craters
Ptolemaic craters are impact features on the Moon named after the ancient astronomer Claudius Ptolemy. They are formed when meteoroids collide with the lunar surface, creating circular bowls or basins. These craters vary in size and often display features like central peaks or terraced walls resulting from the force of impact and subsequent geological processes. Studying these craters helps scientists understand the Moon's geological history and the history of impacts in our solar system. The name "Ptolemaic" is specific to the lunar crater designated as Ptolemaicus, and it follows naming conventions for lunar surface features.