The Moon’s Hidden History: How Artemis Missions Will Unlock Secrets of Our Solar System
For decades, the ‘Man in the Moon’ has captivated our imaginations. But the real story etched onto the lunar surface is far more complex – and potentially far more revealing – than any face we perceive. New research suggests that the upcoming Artemis missions aren’t just about returning humans to the moon; they’re about gaining access to a geological treasure trove that could rewrite our understanding of the moon’s formation and, by extension, the early solar system. Specifically, the landing sites near the lunar south pole are positioned to reveal clues about the moon’s tumultuous past, including the origins of its mysterious near-side volcanic plains.
Unearthing the South Pole-Aitken Basin’s Secrets
At the heart of this discovery lies the South Pole-Aitken (SPA) basin, a colossal impact crater stretching over 1,200 miles. For years, scientists believed a southern impact created this feature. However, a recent study published in Nature, led by Jeffrey Andrews-Hanna at the University of Arizona, challenges this assumption. By analyzing the basin’s shape – which resembles a teardrop or avocado – and comparing it to other impact craters, the team determined the SPA basin was likely formed by an asteroid striking from the north.
This isn’t just a matter of directional debate. The impact’s angle dictates where debris from the lunar interior would have been ejected. The Artemis missions are strategically targeting the “down-range rim” of the SPA basin – the area where material excavated from deep within the moon should be most concentrated. This makes the landing site a prime location to study the moon’s deepest layers without needing to drill miles into the surface.
The Mystery of KREEP and the Lunar Asymmetry
But what exactly will astronauts be looking for? A key piece of the puzzle is a substance called KREEP – an acronym for potassium, rare earth elements, and phosphorus. These elements, often “leftover” from the moon’s molten beginnings, are surprisingly abundant on the near side, fueling intense volcanism that created the dark volcanic plains we see from Earth. Think of it like the high fructose corn syrup in a frozen soda – it resists freezing and concentrates at the end. Similarly, KREEP resisted solidification and accumulated on the near side.
The long-standing question has been: why? The new research proposes a compelling answer. As the moon cooled and its magma ocean solidified, the far side’s crust thickened, effectively “squeezing” the remaining magma – rich in KREEP – towards the near side. This explains the concentration of heat-producing elements and the subsequent volcanic activity.
Thorium as a Tracer
Evidence supporting this theory comes from an unexpected source: thorium, a radioactive element found within KREEP. Analysis of the SPA basin revealed an asymmetry in thorium distribution. The western side of the basin is rich in thorium, while the eastern side is not. This suggests the impact exposed a boundary between the “regular” lunar crust and the last remnants of the KREEP-enriched magma ocean, providing a window into the moon’s internal structure.
Implications for Lunar Resource Utilization and Future Exploration
Understanding the distribution of KREEP isn’t just an academic exercise. These elements have potential value for future lunar resource utilization. For example, rare earth elements are crucial for manufacturing high-tech components, and phosphorus could be used for plant growth in lunar habitats. Knowing where these resources are concentrated will be vital for establishing a sustainable lunar presence.
Furthermore, the insights gained from the Artemis missions will inform future exploration strategies. If the “magma ocean squeezing” theory holds true, it suggests that other regions of the moon might also harbor hidden reserves of valuable resources. This could lead to targeted missions to explore these areas, expanding our understanding of the moon’s potential.
The upcoming Artemis missions represent a pivotal moment in lunar science. By focusing on the South Pole-Aitken basin and analyzing the samples brought back to Earth, scientists are poised to unlock secrets that have remained hidden for billions of years. This isn’t just about understanding the moon; it’s about understanding the origins of our solar system and our place within it. What new discoveries await us on the lunar surface? Only time – and the Artemis missions – will tell.
Explore more about the Artemis program and its goals at NASA’s Artemis website.
What are your predictions for the most significant discovery from the Artemis missions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
