Scientific Interest

Plato Crater, in the Moon’s northern Mare Imbrium, is scientifically important due to its unique geology. The 101 km-wide crater has a smooth, lava-flooded floor contrasting with its rugged rim, offering insights into lunar volcanism and maria formation.

Its dark floor suggests late-stage basaltic lava filling. Scientists study it for signs of tectonic activity, buried impacts, and lava composition. The lack of central peaks or fractures makes it key for understanding crater evolution.

Plato is also a hotspot for transient lunar phenomena (TLP), such as flashes or mists, possibly from outgassing or electrostatic effects. Monitoring these events helps refine models of lunar surface activity.

Formation

Plato Crater formed 3.8 billion years ago when an asteroid or comet struck the Moon’s northern highlands, creating a 101 km-wide basin and ejecting debris. The impact carved steep walls and a deep cavity, later reshaped by geological processes.

Volcanic activity flooded the crater with basaltic lava, giving it a smooth, dark floor. This lava buried its central peak and smaller impact features, making Plato distinct from rugged craters.

Micrometeorite impacts and space weathering have altered its surface, but Plato remains well-preserved, offering insights into lunar impacts, volcanism, and surface evolution.

Diameter         101 km (62.7 mi)
Depth                2.4 km (1.5 mi)
Age                    3.8 BYO
Eponym            Plato

* This item is artisan crafted with meticulous care. Given its handmade and hand-finished nature, variations are to be expected and celebrated.

Product Width Height Depth
Xterra Frame 6×6 7.25 in (18.4 cm) 7.25 in (18.4 cm) 2 in (5 cm)
Xterra Frame 12×12 13.25 in (33.7 cm) 13.25 in (33.7 cm) 2.5 in (6.4 cm)
Xterra Frame 24×24 25.25 in (64.1 cm) 25.25 in (64.1 cm) 3.1 in (7.9 cm)
Xterra Frame 36×36 40 in (101.6 cm) 40 in (101.6 cm) 3.5 in (8.9 cm)
Xterra Frame 48×48 48 in (121.9 cm) 48 in (121.9 cm) 5.5 in (14 cm)

Shipping

Where do you ship?

We primarily ship within the continental United States, with shipping costs included in the product price. For customers outside the U.S., a nominal shipping fee will apply. Please contact us, and we’ll work with you to ensure your Xterra Frame reaches your location.

How long does shipping take?

This is determined by your location. Orders are shipped from our Raleigh location and should arrive to you within a week of the shipping notification.

Are your products in stock?

Every model is handmade and produced individually. To reduce waiting times, we begin creating your order the very next day and most orders are shipped within 2 weeks of your order.

How much does shipping cost?

Shipping is included in the price of Xterra Frames up to 24 × 24 inches within the continental United States.

How do I know when my order will arrive?

You will receive a notification and tracking number via email after your order has been processed.

Where is my order?

Each order will receive a tracking number where you can look up online to determine where your order is and when you anticipate it’s delivery.

Returns

Returns will be accepted for up to 14 days of Customer’s receipt of tracking number from Xterra. You, as a Customer, are obliged to inform us via email before you return the item.

To be eligible for a return, your item must be unused, in the same condition that you received it, and in the original packaging.

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ARTEMIS COLLECTION

PLATO

Price range: $129.00 through $3,949.00


  Free shipping on Xterra Frames up to 24×24 within the continental U.S.  

Every product is uniquely handmade, requiring a minimum of two weeks to achieve its distinct quality.


ABOUT

Plato Crater, in the Moon’s northern Mare Imbrium, is scientifically important due to its unique geology. The 101 km-wide crater has a smooth, lava-flooded floor contrasting with its rugged rim, offering insights into lunar volcanism and maria formation.

Its dark floor suggests late-stage basaltic lava filling. Scientists study it for signs of tectonic activity, buried impacts, and lava composition. The lack of central peaks or fractures makes it key for understanding crater evolution.

Plato is also a hotspot for transient lunar phenomena (TLP), such as flashes or mists, possibly from outgassing or electrostatic effects. Monitoring these events helps refine models of lunar surface activity.

Location of Plato crater as Seen from the Earth's Northern Hemisphere

Materials

*This item is artisan crafted with meticulous care. Given its handmade and hand-finished nature, variations are to be expected and celebrated.

Dimensions

Width Height Depth
25.25 in (64.1 cm) 25.25 in (64.1 cm) 1.5 in (3.8 cm)

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