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There appears to be a lot more water on the moon than previously thought. This is evident from two studies published in the journal Nature Astronomy.
In the first study, researchers from Casey Honniball of the University of Hawaii analyzed data from the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (Sofia). This is an aircraft that has been converted by the US space agency NASA and the German Aerospace Center, which functions as a kind of flying telescope. During the examination of the Clavius crater south of the moon, evidence of water molecules was found. These could be kept mainly in glass beads or in crevices in the rubble on the surface, he said.
In a second study, a team used NASA data to specifically search for craters, fissures, and small areas where water ice could form. Scientists have observed that these so-called “cold traps” are almost all smaller than a coin.
Relevant results for future missions
Water resources on the moon would be particularly important for future lunar missions. According to reports, space researchers are already considering “fueling stations” on the way to Mars.
For a long time the moon was considered a dry celestial body. In 1994, NASA’s “Clementine” spacecraft then provided evidence of water in the shady craters. Other findings followed.
This message was broadcast on October 27, 2020 in the Deutschlandfunk Nova program.
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