Description:
The Descartes Highlands are a rugged, hilly region on the Moon's near side, formed from ancient impact ejecta and crustal material uplifted during the Nectarian period. Characterized by knobby terrain and anorthositic rocks, it was selected for Apollo 16 to study highland geology.
The area features rolling hills, small craters, and layered deposits, revealing the Moon's early crust. Astronauts collected samples showing non-volcanic origins, contradicting earlier hypotheses, and helping to understand the lunar highland composition and impact history.
How I Got My Name:
Named after René Descartes, the French philosopher and mathematician known for his contributions to science and thought, as per lunar naming traditions.
Interesting Fact:
Apollo 16 landed here in 1972; astronauts John Young and Charles Duke collected samples showing it's composed of anorthositic rocks, disproving volcanic dome theory. They used the lunar rover to traverse 27 km, collecting 95 kg of samples, advancing knowledge of lunar highlands.
Location:
Near 11.7° S, 15.5° E.
