Impact Cratering in the Solar System from Paleomagnetic and Rock Magnetic Perspectives

Dear Colleagues,

The study of impact craters has expanded with crater discoveries, integrated multi-technique laboratory analyses, instrumental advances, isotopes, microanalysis, impact experiments, numerical simulations, planetary missions, new models, and theoretical developments.

Paleomagnetic and rock magnetic studies have provided data and novel insights on crater formation, impact temperature/pressure states, shock metamorphism, target deformation, ejecta emplacement and distribution, as well as constraining the chronology of impacts and crater formation and evolution. 

The terrestrial record of impact cratering has been mostly erased. Buried, deformed, and eroded craters require detailed studies for their identification and characterization, with field and laboratory analyses needed. The diverse and contrasting geological settings of craters present interesting challenges. Impact crater research is multi- and inter-disciplinary, with paleomagnetic and rock magnetic studies opening new directions and connections.

Crater-forming impacts release a high amount of energy over short time scales, which is reflected in the high temperature/pressure, tectonic deformation, fracturing, excavation, and ejection. The effects on the environment and biosphere are being investigated, including those associated with organism extinctions and evolution.

In the early stages of our planetary system, collisions played major roles in the formation of protoplanets and planets, melting, differentiation, and the destruction of protoplanets and planets. The Late Heavy Bombardment records a period of intense activity, which may be associated with major characteristics of planets and smaller bodies, mineral distribution, water, atmospheres, and life.

Crater-forming impacts are important in the evolution of planetary crusts, mass transport, and interior dynamics. Impact craters have provided diverse conditions and settings for certain organisms, including long-lived hydrothermal systems and fluid circulation processes. Studies document high-resolution records of the physicochemical conditions in ancient and recent craters, opening new and interesting research avenues.

Magnetic fields played a major role for the early Sun and protoplanets and planets, with paleomagnetic studies constraining the interplanetary field and core dynamo fields. Studies have extended to investigate magnetic fields in planetary nebula and exoplanet systems.

The geologic and tectonic characteristics of planetary bodies associated with impacts include the Mars crust impact demagnetization, the Mars dichotomy, and the Moon hemispheric dichotomy and impact maria.

Prof. Dr. Jaime Urrutia Fucugauchi
Guest Editor

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