It could be simpler for us to explore and reside on the Moon That's more than we initially believed, according to scientists.
According to a recent study, ice might be found beneath the Moon's surface in larger areas of its polar regions than previously thought.
Utilizing that ice and converting it into water will probably play a crucial role in our investigation or potential settlement of the Moon. However, the exact quantity available remains uncertain.
The probability of discovering ice correlates with the surface temperature on the lunar surface.
However, our recordings of the Moon's surface temperatures were conducted during the Apollo missions in the 1970s — which touched down near the equatorial region, quite distant from our planned landing site for future trips to the Moon. Additionally, within these areas of the Moon, the inclination of the terrain has minimal impact on the ambient temperature.
Currently, scientists have utilized data from ChaSTE—a temperature measurement experiment conducted via the Vikram lander aboard India's Chandrayaan-3 mission. This lander reached the southern polar area of the moon in 2023.
They managed to examine both inclined and level sections of the terrain, discovering that areas with inclines facing away from the sun could potentially remain cold enough for frost to form close to the surface. These conditions may occur on the moon—specifically in locations where NASA’s forthcoming manned Artemis missions intend to touch down.
The results are detailed in a recent study titled 'Higher Surface Temperatures Near South Polar Region of the Moon Measured by ChaSTE Experiment on Board Chandrayaan-3,' which has been published in the journal. Communications Earth & Environment .
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