Image for Shadowed Crater

Shadowed Crater

Shadowed Crater is a lunar feature on the Moon characterized by a crater whose interior is partially or completely in shadow due to the angle of sunlight. These shadows highlight the crater's depth and uneven terrain, making them important for scientists studying lunar geology and topology. The shadows can persist for long periods because the Moon’s axial tilt is minimal, resulting in low-angle sunlight. This natural shading helps in identifying the shape and size of craters and can also trap cold temperatures, impacting lunar surface conditions. Shadowed Craters are of interest for potential resource extraction and scientific research.