Human Impact on the Moon: Scientists Propose New Geological Epoch
The moon, despite being hundreds of thousands of miles away from Earth, has been significantly shaped by human exploration over the past six decades. In fact, the impact has been so substantial that scientists are now suggesting the declaration of a new geological epoch called the “Lunar Anthropocene.”
The epoch is believed to have begun in September 1959 when the Soviet Union’s Luna 2 spacecraft crash-landed on the moon, leaving behind a crater. Since then, numerous missions have followed, each leaving its mark on the lunar surface, whether through crash-landings or successful soft landings.
Today, remnants of human exploration such as rovers, science experiments, and even golf balls can still be found on the moon. And this is just the beginning, as more space agencies and countries plan trips to our celestial neighbor.
Recently, Japan’s “Moon Sniper” robotic explorer successfully landed on the lunar surface. However, it encountered a critical issue almost immediately. The Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) mission was forced to rely on limited battery power due to a solar power issue caused by the spacecraft facing the wrong direction. Despite this setback, there is still hope that the lander and its two rovers can continue their mission if they can soak up some sunlight.
While human impact on the moon is a relatively recent phenomenon, humans have been leaving their mark on Earth for thousands of years. Researchers studying mammoth tusks have been able to trace the movements of these ancient creatures and discovered that humans set up seasonal hunting camps in areas where mammoths gathered. This finding provides insight into the relationship between humans and mammoths over 14,000 years ago.
In Malaysia, the population of tigers is rapidly declining, with only an estimated 150 left within the country’s ancient rainforests. To aid conservation efforts, photographer Emmanuel Rondeau partnered with WWF-Malaysia to capture an image of the elusive Malayan tiger. This endeavor required months of preparation, a team of rangers, and eight cameras. Despite challenges such as an ant colony overrunning one camera and an elephant destroying another, Rondeau’s efforts paid off, resulting in a stunning photograph that may serve as a symbol of hope for the conservation of these majestic creatures.
Moving back in time, about 29 million years ago in Oregon, a grasshopper dug an underground nursery and laid approximately 50 eggs in a radial pattern. These eggs fossilized and provide a rare glimpse into the lives of ancient insects. It is particularly remarkable that the grasshopper nursery survived, considering it was found in an area where water once flowed. Dr. Nick Famoso, a paleontology program manager and museum curator, describes this finding as unparalleled in the fossil record.
Lastly, as winter storms sweep across the United States, some areas, including Chicago, have experienced “frost quakes.” These quakes are loud, booming or popping sounds accompanied by small earthquake-like tremors that occur during sudden freezing of the ground in cold weather. While disconcerting, frost quakes are not dangerous and won’t cause any significant damage. Scientists are monitoring areas where this phenomenon occurs to gain a better understanding of frost quakes and whether they are increasing.
In conclusion, human impact on the moon has been significant enough to warrant the proposal of a new geological epoch. As we continue to explore space and uncover ancient mysteries on Earth, our actions leave lasting imprints on the world around us. Whether it’s the remnants of spacecraft on the lunar surface or the delicate fossils of ancient insects, each discovery tells a story of our interaction with the cosmos and our planet.