Solar Wind Rebuilds Moon Water Daily

Solar Wind Rebuilds Moon Water Daily

Scientists have confirmed that the Moon can keep regenerating a thin surface layer of water-related molecules when solar wind protons slam into lunar soil and supply hydrogen that bonds with oxygen in the minerals. The NASA-led lab test used Apollo 17 samples inside an airless chamber and detected the telltale 3-micron infrared signal associated with hydroxyl and water formation. That same signature also follows a daily cycle that fades as the surface heats and strengthens again as it cools, which points to an active source replenishing it.

Previous Fact Next Fact
Categories: SpaceScienceDiscovery

Latest FactRepublic Video

15 Most Controversial & Costly Blunders in History

Sponsored Links