A recent study by the US Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has uncovered a fascinating aspect of the Moon’s composition, focusing on lunar rocks brought back by the Apollo program. The study has revealed the presence of hydrogen within these rocks, potentially offering a valuable resource for future lunar explorations.
The Apollo program, which brought back 382 kilograms of lunar rock, provided substantial material for scientific analysis. Some samples were promptly examined, while others were securely stored for later research.
Led by Katherine D. Burgess, along with team members Brittany A. Cymes and Rhonda M. Stroud, the NRL research team delved into lunar rocks to understand the origins and formation of water on the Moon. This knowledge is crucial for sustained lunar exploration, particularly for the establishment of lunar bases that could benefit from utilizing local resources.
Transmission electron microscopy played a key role in the investigation, focusing on lunar sample 79221. This technique used a beam of electrons to visualize specimens at a highly magnified scale. The team concentrated on mineral grains like apatite and merrillite, identifying signs of ‘space’ weathering caused by the solar wind.
The solar wind, a stream of charged particles from the Sun traveling at speeds up to 1.6 million km per hour, plays a significant role in influencing the lunar surface. The findings from this study shed light on the potential availability of hydrogen on the Moon when combined with lunar oxygen, opening up possibilities for sustainable lunar exploration and resource utilization.
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