Xiao Zhao (crater)
MESSENGER image | |
| Feature type | Impact crater |
|---|---|
| Location | Eminescu quadrangle, Mercury |
| Coordinates | 10°35′N 236°10′W / 10.58°N 236.16°W |
| Diameter | 24 km (15 mi) |
| Eponym | Xiao Zhao |
Xiao Zhao crater is small in comparison with many other craters on Mercury. However, Xiao Zhao's long bright rays make it a readily visible feature. The fresh, bright rays, which were created by material ejected outward during the impact event that formed the crater, indicate that Xiao Zhao is a relatively young crater on Mercury's surface.
Hollows are present within Xiao Zhao and on the ejecta blanket near the rim. A confirmed dark spot is present in Xiao Zhao. This dark spot is associated with the hollows.
Xiao Zhao was named by the IAU in 2008 after the 12th-century Chinese painter Xiao Zhao.
Xiao Zhao is located near Eastman crater.