Scientists pin down the origins of the moon's tenuous atmosphere
Scientists from MIT and the University of Chicago found that the moon's atmosphere is mainly formed by meteorite impacts, contributing 70%, with solar wind accounting for 30%, based on Apollo samples.
Read original article
Scientists from MIT and the University of Chicago have identified the primary process responsible for the formation and sustenance of the moon's tenuous atmosphere, known as the exosphere. Their research, published in Science Advances, indicates that "impact vaporization" from continuous meteorite bombardment over the moon's 4.5 billion-year history is the dominant mechanism. The study analyzed lunar soil samples collected during NASA's Apollo missions, focusing on the isotopes of potassium and rubidium. The findings suggest that approximately 70% of the moon's atmosphere is generated by meteorite impacts, while the remaining 30% is attributed to solar wind-induced ion sputtering. The research highlights the importance of these processes in understanding not only the moon's atmospheric history but also the potential implications for other celestial bodies. The study emphasizes the value of lunar samples in providing precise data for planetary science and the evolution of the solar system.
- The moon's atmosphere is primarily formed by impact vaporization from meteorite impacts.
- Approximately 70% of the lunar atmosphere is generated by meteorite impacts, with 30% from solar wind.
- The research utilized lunar soil samples from NASA's Apollo missions for isotopic analysis.
- Understanding the moon's atmosphere can provide insights into similar processes on other moons and asteroids.
- The study underscores the importance of returning samples from celestial bodies for detailed scientific analysis.
Related
First ever rocks from the Moon's far side have landed on Earth
China's Chang'e-6 mission safely brings unique Moon rocks from the far side to Earth, sparking high scientific interest. International collaboration and future lunar exploration plans signal China's advancing space capabilities.
Graphene find in China's Chang'e-5 moon samples challenges lunar origin theory
Chinese researchers found graphene in lunar soil from the Chang’e-5 mission, challenging moon formation theories. Graphene presence suggests carbon capturing processes on the moon's surface, impacting chemical understanding and potential graphene synthesis advancements.
China discovers naturally occurring few-layer graphene in lunar samples
Chinese researchers discovered few-layer graphene in lunar samples from the Chang’e-5 probe, revealing insights into the moon's geological evolution and potential resource utilization. The finding highlights the moon's composition and history.
Chinese Scientists Find Molecular Water in Lunar Soil
Chinese scientists identified molecular water and ammonium in lunar soil from the Chang’e-5 mission, revealing significant water sources and potential resources for lunar exploration, contrasting earlier Apollo findings.
Lunar Lava Tube Revealed Beneath Collapsed Pit
Recent research has discovered a lunar lava tube beneath a pit in Mare Tranquillitatis, suggesting potential for exploring the Moon's subsurface and enhancing understanding of its volcanic history.
0 commentsRelated
First ever rocks from the Moon's far side have landed on Earth
China's Chang'e-6 mission safely brings unique Moon rocks from the far side to Earth, sparking high scientific interest. International collaboration and future lunar exploration plans signal China's advancing space capabilities.
Graphene find in China's Chang'e-5 moon samples challenges lunar origin theory
Chinese researchers found graphene in lunar soil from the Chang’e-5 mission, challenging moon formation theories. Graphene presence suggests carbon capturing processes on the moon's surface, impacting chemical understanding and potential graphene synthesis advancements.
China discovers naturally occurring few-layer graphene in lunar samples
Chinese researchers discovered few-layer graphene in lunar samples from the Chang’e-5 probe, revealing insights into the moon's geological evolution and potential resource utilization. The finding highlights the moon's composition and history.
Chinese Scientists Find Molecular Water in Lunar Soil
Chinese scientists identified molecular water and ammonium in lunar soil from the Chang’e-5 mission, revealing significant water sources and potential resources for lunar exploration, contrasting earlier Apollo findings.
Lunar Lava Tube Revealed Beneath Collapsed Pit
Recent research has discovered a lunar lava tube beneath a pit in Mare Tranquillitatis, suggesting potential for exploring the Moon's subsurface and enhancing understanding of its volcanic history.