Week 5 · Published May 31, 2026 · Paper 21 of 383
Great-circle paths represent the shortest routes across a spherical surface and provide a useful geometric framework for evaluating large-scale spatial relationships. Numerous planetary systems can be described using great-circle geometry without requiring additional assumptions.
This paper examines whether major geological structures exhibit alignment characteristics that can be evaluated through great-circle relationships. The objective is not to assert causation but to investigate whether observable spatial organization exists at planetary scale.
The analysis focuses on structural positioning, continuity, directional persistence, and geometric relationships among widely separated geological expressions. Great-circle geometry provides a consistent reference system for comparing those relationships.
By introducing a planetary geometric framework, the paper expands the sequence from regional and global distribution studies into spatial relationship analysis.
This paper establishes great-circle geometry as a descriptive comparison tool for later alignment studies.