The Moon
Rille
Say it: RIL IPA: /rɪl/ noun
Rille: A long, narrow trough or channel on a planetary surface, especially the Moon.
Some lunar rilles meander, while others are straighter. Winding forms can be associated with ancient lava flows or collapsed lava channels; different shapes can have different origins.
- Example
- The lunar image showed a sinuous rille winding across a dark plain.
- Why astronomers use it
- Rilles help reconstruct volcanic and tectonic processes on the Moon.
- Tiny cosmic connection
- A channel that resembles a riverbed is not by itself evidence that liquid water carved it.
Observatory The Moon
Where to check it
Written for Cool Moon Facts in its own words; the sources cover the same idea in more depth.