Several images have been combined to make this larger mosaic, but the resolution in the version shown here is only half that of the original. These data were taken at full Moon, and the view is pretty much as is seen at optical wavelengths, since both wavelengths are sensitive to reflected sunlight. The differences in intensity in the lunar mare are mostly due to albedo effects. This image along with further information can be found in an article in the August 1991 issue of Sky and Telescope magazine. Data taken in 1990 using a 640x480 pixel platinum silicide infrared camera of Eastman Kodak on the Steward Observatory 2.3-m telescope on Kitt Peak, Arizona.
Image is oriented as normally seen from the Earth.
Several images have been combined to make this larger mosaic, but the resolution in the version shown here is only half that of the original. These data were also taken at full Moon, immediately after the H-band data above. The view is quite different to that seen in the H-band image however, with apparent shadows delineating the mountainous terrain. Since the L-band emission is due to thermal emission from the Moon's surface, these temperature differences give the appearance of shadows. This image along with further information can be found in an article in the August 1991 issue of Sky and Telescope magazine.