Meteorites give the Moon its thin atmosphere
Research from MIT and the University of Chicago shows meteorite impacts are vital for the Moon's thin atmosphere, with impact vaporization being the main source of atmospheric potassium atoms.
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Research from MIT and the University of Chicago has revealed that meteorite impacts are crucial in maintaining the Moon's extremely thin atmosphere, known as an exosphere. The study indicates that over billions of years, space rocks have continuously bombarded the lunar surface, vaporizing material and releasing atoms into the atmosphere. The analysis of lunar soil samples from the Apollo missions showed that both impact vaporization and ion sputtering contribute to the exosphere, with impact vaporization being the primary source, accounting for over 65% of atmospheric potassium atoms. The study also highlighted that while ion sputtering releases atoms at higher energies, many escape the Moon's weak gravitational pull, making them less likely to contribute to the atmosphere. The findings suggest that the Moon's atmosphere is not static but is replenished by ongoing meteorite impacts. This research could have implications for understanding the atmospheres of other celestial bodies, such as Mercury and Mars, as scientists prepare for future lunar missions.
- Meteorite impacts are essential for maintaining the Moon's thin atmosphere.
- Impact vaporization is the dominant source of atmospheric potassium atoms.
- Ion sputtering also contributes but results in higher energy atoms that often escape.
- The study of lunar soil samples provides insights into atmospheric processes applicable to other celestial bodies.
- Ongoing research may enhance our understanding of the Moon's atmosphere as manned missions approach.
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