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P. C. Thomas (Cornell University), M. S. Robinson (Northwestern University), J. Veverka (Cornell University), S. Murchie (Applied Physics Laboratory)
Mapping of ejecta blocks and other components of the regolith on asteroid 433 Eros from NEAR Multispectral Imager data show geographical patterns of block occurrences, variations in size-frequency distribution of blocks, many forms of downslope movement, and distinctive impact crater populations. The global distribution of large (>15 m) blocks suggests the great majority originated from the relatively young 7.6 km Shoemaker crater (proposed name). Blocks from other large craters have either been buried, eroded, or were not produced as efficiently as from Shoemaker crater. The variety of distributions of particle size-frequencies indicates sorting by processes effective after initial ballistic emplacement, most likely gravity-driven flows and possibly electrostatic effects.