Blanchinus (crater)

Blanchinus is a lunar impact crater in the rugged south-central highlands of the Moon. It is named after Italian astronomer Giovanni Bianchini whose Latinized name is Blanchinus. Adjacent to its south is the crater Werner, and La Caille is attached to the northwest rim. To its west is the prominent formation Purbach.

Blanchinus' outer rim has been significantly degraded by subsequent impacts, leaving an irregular, notched exterior ring of rugged hills and ridges. The inner floor, in contrast, is nearly flat and free of significant impacts. Only a few tiny craterlets mark it, with Blanchinus M near the midpoint and the remainder near the southwest rim.

For a few hours before the first quarter, the crater's rim contributes the lunar x visual phenomenon.

Satellite craters
By convention these features are identified on lunar maps by placing the letter on the side of the crater midpoint that is closest to Blanchinus.