Moonquakes could reveal ice buried beneath lunar south polar craters
Geologists have discovered that seismic waves, similar to those measured during earthquakes, could be used to detect water ice buried beneath the Moon's surface. This finding is significant for NASA's Artemis program, which aims to utilize lunar resources for future crewed missions.
Why it matters
Identifying accessible water ice on the Moon is critical for sustaining long-term human presence and reducing the logistical costs of space exploration.
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Add as preferred source On the first shift during the lunar flyby observation period, the Artemis II crew captured more than two-thirds of the Moon showcasing the intricate features of the nearside. The 600-mile-wide impact crater, Orientale basin, lies along the transition between the near and far sides and is sometimes partly visible from Earth. The round black spot northeast of Orientale is Grimaldi crater, known for its exceptionally dark mare lava floor and heavily degraded rim. Credit: NASA Finding water on the moon may only be a matter of detecting the right vibrations.
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