Chandrayaan-3, which landed near the Moon's south pole on August 23, 2023, has provided important new data. The mission suggests that lunar ice deposits are more plentiful and easier to reach than previously thought.
Temperature measurements taken near the landing site indicate that ice may exist in more locations beneath the surface, particularly at the poles. Researchers led by Durga Prasad Karanam at the Physical Research Laboratory believe that local temperature differences, influenced by surface features and sunlight, are responsible for the ice formation. Studying these ice particles can help us understand the Moon's geological past.
The ChaSTE probe measured temperatures as deep as 10 cm below the surface at 'Shiv Shakti Point.' These measurements showed dramatic temperature variations, ranging from 82°C to -170°C. A model suggests that surfaces with slopes steeper than 14 degrees and facing away from the Sun could stay cold enough for ice to accumulate near the surface.
These findings are important for future missions like NASA's Artemis program. Easily accessible ice is a crucial resource for long-term exploration and potential settlement on the Moon. Although ice would turn into vapor in the Moon's vacuum environment, this discovery emphasizes the need to develop ways to collect and use it. High-latitude areas appear to be promising locations for ice deposits that are less difficult to access.
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This improved understanding of where lunar ice is located will have a major impact on planning future lunar missions. Chandrayaan-3's successful and cost-effective landing near the Moon's south pole is a significant milestone.