Volcanic Activity Confirmed on the Moon’s Far Side: A Geological Breakthrough
For the first time, researchers have confirmed that the far side of the moon experienced erupting volcanoes billions of years ago, similar to the side visible from Earth. New findings, published in Nature and Science, are based on lunar soil samples collected by China’s Chang’e-6 mission. This landmark mission was the first to retrieve rock and soil samples from the moon’s far side, an area that has long remained unexplored.
Key Discoveries
The study revealed volcanic rock fragments on the far side that date back approximately 2.8 billion years, with one sample tracing its origins to an astonishing 4.2 billion years ago. These findings provide a unique glimpse into the moon’s geological history.
Christopher Hamilton, a planetary volcanologist at the University of Arizona, highlighted the significance of this discovery:
“To obtain a sample from this area is really important because it’s an area that otherwise we have no data for.”
Comparison Between the Near and Far Sides
Previously, scientists knew that the near side of the moon—the side visible from Earth—had active volcanoes within the same time frame. The far side, however, was believed to lack such activity due to its heavily cratered surface and absence of large, flat lava plains like those seen on the near side. These new findings challenge that assumption, broadening our understanding of the moon’s volcanic past.
Qiu-Li Li, a co-author of the study, noted:
“The differences between the near and far sides of the moon remain unclear, but this discovery adds important data to help unravel the mystery.”
The Chang’e Missions: Advancing Lunar Science
China’s Chang’e missions have been instrumental in expanding lunar exploration:
- Chang’e-4 (2019): The first spacecraft to land on the far side of the moon, paving the way for further exploration.
- Chang’e-6: Collected the samples that led to this breakthrough.
The newly discovered volcanic rocks are now the focus of ongoing studies to understand how volcanic activity on the moon’s far side persisted for over a billion years and what this reveals about the moon’s thermal and geological evolution.
Implications for Lunar Exploration
This discovery underscores the complexity of the moon’s geological history and opens new avenues for research. It raises questions about:
- The factors driving prolonged volcanic activity on the far side.
- The differences in geological processes between the moon’s near and far sides.
- The broader implications for understanding planetary formation and evolution.
Learn More
- Nature: Lunar Volcanic Activity
- Science: Geological Studies of the Moon
- China National Space Administration - Chang’e Missions
These findings mark a significant step forward in unraveling the moon’s ancient past, offering fresh insights into its volcanic and geological history.
