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Moon's Shrinkage Causes 'Moonquakes', Poses Potential Threat to Future Lunar Missions

NASA-funded study links powerful moonquake to faults at lunar south pole, a region targeted for future human settlements.

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This composite image of the moon using Clementine data from 1994 is the view we are most likely to see when the moon is full. Credit: NASA To learn about NASA's LRO project go to: http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/LRO/main/index.html NASA Goddard Space Flight Center contributes to NASA’s mission through four scientific endeavors: Earth Science, Heliophysics, Solar System Exploration, and Astrophysics. Goddard plays a leading role in NASA’s endeavors by providing compelling scientific knowledge to advance the Agency’s mission. Follow us on Twitter Join us on Facebook

Overview

  • The moon's core is gradually cooling and shrinking, causing the lunar surface to develop creases that result in 'moonquakes' and landslides.
  • NASA-funded study links a powerful moonquake to a series of faults in the lunar south pole, a region of interest for future human settlements and equipment.
  • The moon has shrunk by about 150 feet in circumference over the last few million years, a significant number in geological terms.
  • The strongest recorded moonquake was the equivalent of magnitude 5.0, which would feel worse on the moon due to its lower gravity.
  • Despite the potential danger, moonquakes pose a low risk to short-term missions on the lunar surface, but could factor into site selection for long-term human presence.