16th February, 2024
CHIRANJIT MITRA
The Moon lacks significant erosion processes, preserving a record of early impacts on the Earth and solar system, which is lost on our planet.
Studying lunar geology could provide evidence about the materials and conditions present during the early solar system, offering insight into how and where life may have originated.
Volcanic activity on Earth constantly reshapes our surface, erasing evidence of its earliest chapters. Analyzing the Moon's ancient volcanic history and composition offers a clearer understanding of planetary volcanism and the potential for past tectonic activity.
Scientists want to understand lunar magnetism and its history to show how magnetic fields shield planets from radiation. This knowledge could inform how Earth's magnetic field has and might change.
The Moon offers a testing ground for technologies, resource gathering, and the challenges of long-term lunar stays with an eye toward missions further into space. It serves as a potential base for future launches.
From Helium-3, a possible clean energy source, to water ice deposits in polar craters, scientists want to understand the abundance and viability of extracting resources to support future endeavors in space.