This topographical map of the moon is constructed from over 6 million altitude measurements captured by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's KAYUGA lunar explorer (also known as SELENE). Apollo Missions 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, and 17 landed near the equator of the moon in part because that area was easy to land and relatively obstacle free.

The Shackleton Crater, located near the moon's South Pole, may become another important lunar site. Due to its moderate temperatures, constant sunlight, flat surfaces, and relatively plentiful resources, the crater offers a livable landscape suitable for habitation.

Elements available in the ground near the Shackleton Crater (oxygen, nitrogen, calcium, and silicon) make the area a prime location for activities like mining, masonry, and even farming--that is, if NASA follows through on the call to put a colony on the moon.