Geomorphology of Krieger Crater (Moon)

Krieger crater is a ∼25 km diameter Imbrian complex crater located in Oceanus Procellarum, within the northern Aristarchus–Harbinger region on the Moon. This work presents a new high-resolution geomorphological map derived from integrated analysis of LRO NAC imagery, SLDEM2015 topography, and Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) hyperspectral data. The combined photogeological, morphometric, and spectral investigation led to the identification of 20 geomorphological units grouped into Highland, Mare, and Crater-related classes. The analyses reveal that Krieger experienced a complex origin and post-impact evolution. Rim asymmetry, heterogeneous ejecta distribution, impact melt differentiation, and olivine-bearing volcanic materials indicate an oblique impact followed by significant floor uplift and internal magmatic intrusion, consistent with the evolution of floor-fractured craters. Subsequent Eratosthenian impacts further reworked the crater, excavating deeper materials and enhancing compositional heterogeneity. The resulting map provides new insights into the interplay between impact processes, tectonics, and volcanism in shaping the geological evolution of the region.Key policy highlightsA geomorphological map of Krieger crater at 1:200,000 scale identifies 20 distinct units, including Highland, Mare, and Crater-related deposits, based on combined spectral, morphometric, and photogeological criteria, providing a revised spatial representation of surface units and geological relationships within the study area.The map documents not only ejecta, wall, and floor units, but also key geological linear features such as wrinkle ridges and the volcanic channel of Rima Krieger, enhancing structural interpretation.Integrated morphological and hyperspectral mapping reveals a complex impact origin followed by floor uplift and volcanic activity, recorded in the spatial arrangement of mapped units.The cartographic synthesis improves understanding of floor-fractured crater evolution and supports reproducible planetary geological mapping.