Shrinking Moon Raises Concerns for Astronaut Safety
NASA’s upcoming Artemis III mission is under scrutiny due to potential risks posed by moonquakes in the lunar south pole region. A recent study highlighted that these geological activities could endanger astronauts by triggering landslides.
Threat to Lunar Settlements
The moon’s gradual shrinking, leading to the formation of thrust faults, has been a known phenomenon. However, the study points out that some of these faults are near planned landing sites for NASA’s Artemis III mission. This poses a significant threat to long-term lunar settlements envisioned by NASA.
Danger at the Lunar South Pole
Artemis III aims to land astronauts near the moon’s south pole, known for its valuable resources like water ice. Even minor moonquakes in this region could potentially cause landslides, posing a risk to astronauts’ safety, particularly concerning future long-term missions.
Moonquakes vs. Earthquakes
Although moonquakes may seem milder compared to earthquakes on Earth, the moon’s lower gravity amplifies their effects. The researchers warn that this factor should be considered when planning the stability of permanent outposts on the moon.
NASA’s Mission Challenges
NASA’s moon exploration efforts faced setbacks recently, including the postponement of the Artemis II mission to orbit the moon. These delays, compounded by the risk of moonquakes, underscore the complexities involved in establishing a permanent lunar presence.
For now, NASA must address immediate mission hurdles, which take precedence over concerns about moonquakes and lunar landslides.