NASA astronauts who are in the process of setting up a base near the lunar south pole may be facing potential risks from regolith landslides and moonquakes, warns a study conducted by researchers. It has been discovered that over the past few hundred million years, the moon’s circumference has shrunk by approximately 150 feet, resulting in the brittle lunar surface wrinkling and fracturing.
Moonquakes that are generated by activity at faultlines pose a significant threat to astronauts attempting to establish a permanent base. Slip events occurring around fault areas can trigger shallow moonquakes, capable of generating powerful tremors that have the potential to dislodge regolith and trigger landslides.
The research team has gone so far as to pinpoint specific landing locations that NASA should avoid when planning its future missions to the Moon’s surface. This crucial information will help in ensuring the safety of astronauts during Artemis missions, which aim to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon.
However, NASA’s Artemis program has recently faced some setbacks, with the first crewed launch being delayed to 2025 and astronauts not expected to return to the moon until at least September 2026. As a result, the space agency has focused on conducting a series of robotic missions before sending humans. Unfortunately, these missions have encountered difficulties and failures. One such example is Astrobotic’s Peregrine lunar lander, which had to prematurely end its mission due to a propulsion anomaly. Japan’s SLIM spacecraft also faced challenges, as it was unable to generate electricity and had to be put into hibernation.
This study on lunar seismic activity aims to assist NASA in better preparing for the challenges that astronauts and equipment may face during future Artemis missions. By identifying potential risks and hazards, the research provides valuable insights to enhance the safety and success of lunar operations.
As NASA continues its ambitious goals of returning humans to the moon, it is clear that understanding and mitigating the risks associated with lunar activities is of utmost importance. The study’s findings serve as a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that lie ahead, while also highlighting the necessity for careful planning and precautionary measures to protect the lives of astronauts and ensure the success of Artemis missions.
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