Geotectonic evolution of lunar LQ-4 region based on multisource data

• The Sinus Iridum region is the first choice for the Chinese lunar-orbiting spacecraft Chang'e-3's soft landing site.
• The data for this study comes from CE-1, Clementine, LRO and Lunar Prospector missions.
• The tectonic elements, units, events and evolution sequence in the lunar LQ-4 area are elucidated.
• Four stages of tectonic evolution of LQ-4 identified.

The Sinus Iridum region, the first choice for China's “Lunar Exploration Project” is located at the center of the lunar LQ-4 area and is the site of Chang'e-3 (CE-3)'s soft landing. To make the scientific exploration of Chang'e-3 more targeted and scientific, and to obtain a better macro-level understanding of the geotectonic environment of the Sinus Iridum region, the tectonic elements in LQ-4 region have been studied and the typical structures were analyzed statistically using data from CE-1, Clementine, LRO and Lunar Prospector missions. Also, the mineral components and periods of mare basalt activities in the study area have been ascertained. The present study divides the tectonic units and establishes the major tectonic events and sequence of evolution in the study area based on morphology, mineral constituents, and tectonic element distribution.

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