The theoretical plausibility of central pit crater formation via melt drainage

► The volume of impact melt generated is estimated from results of previous studies. ► We estimate impact fracture volume using gravity anomalies over terrestrial craters. ► Melt volume and fracture volume both exceed observed central pit volumes. ► Enough water can drain into impact fractures on Ganymede to form a central pit. ► On Earth and the Moon, silicate impact melt freezes before a large volume drains.