Identifying Moonquake Risks: Potential Landing Sites for Artemis Mission Pose Dangers
The moon, Earth’s celestial neighbor, has long fascinated scientists and explorers alike. Its barren surface and mysterious landscapes have been the subject of numerous missions and studies over the years. However, as we prepare for future human exploration of the moon, new research has shed light on potential risks that could pose challenges to our ambitions.
A recent study published in the Planetary Science Journal has identified potential landing sites for NASA’s Artemis mission that are particularly vulnerable to moonquakes and landslides. The research team, led by Thomas R. Watters, a senior scientist emeritus in the National Air and Space Museum’s Center for Earth and Planetary Studies, discovered evidence of surface warping in the moon’s south polar region. This warping, caused by the moon’s gradual shrinkage over millions of years, has resulted in the formation of faults where sections of the lunar crust push against each other.
Moonquakes, similar to earthquakes on Earth, are often accompanied by fault formation. These quakes can be powerful enough to damage buildings and structures, making it crucial to identify safe landing sites for future human missions. The team connected a group of faults in the moon’s south polar region to one of the most powerful moonquakes recorded by Apollo seismometers over 50 years ago. By simulating the stability of surface slopes in the region, they found that certain areas were particularly susceptible to landslides triggered by seismic shaking.
Shallow moonquakes, which occur near the surface of the moon, can last for hours or even an entire afternoon. Unlike earthquakes on Earth, which typically last only a few seconds or minutes, these moonquakes can have devastating effects on hypothetical human settlements. Nicholas Schmerr, a co-author of the paper and an associate professor of geology at the University of Maryland, explained that the loose and loosely consolidated surface material on the moon makes it prone to shaking and landslides.
As NASA’s Artemis missions aim to establish a long-term presence on the moon, it becomes crucial to ensure the safety of astronauts, equipment, and infrastructure. The team’s research is helping in this preparation by identifying dangerous zones and engineering structures that can better withstand lunar seismic activity. The first crewed Artemis mission is set to launch in late 2024, marking an important milestone in human space exploration.
While the study has identified potential risks, it also highlights the importance of further mapping and understanding the moon’s seismic activity. By continuing to study the moon and its geological features, scientists hope to uncover more locations that may pose challenges for human exploration. These findings will aid in the development of strategies to protect future lunar inhabitants and enable them to live and work on another world.
As we venture closer to the next phase of lunar exploration, the lessons learned from this research will be invaluable. Whether it’s designing structures that can withstand moonquakes or identifying safe landing sites, every effort is being made to ensure the success and safety of future Artemis missions. The moon, with its mysteries and potential, beckons us to explore further, and with careful planning and scientific knowledge, we can make our mark on its ancient surface while keeping our astronauts out of harm’s way.
Reference:
Watters, T. R., Schmerr, N. C., Weber, R. C., Johnson, C. L., Speyerer, E. J., Robinson, M. S., & Banks, M. E. (2024). Tectonics and Seismicity of the Lunar South Polar Region. Planetary Science Journal. DOI: 10.3847/PSJ/ad1332
