As human activity on the Moon increases, infrastructure proposals are being developed for further exploration in this area. One of these is a proposal to install a fiber optic network focusing on the seismology of the Moon. This concept aims to study in more detail the seismic activity detected by seismometers placed on the surface of the Moon.
A new step in the seismological exploration of the Moon: Fiber optic network installation
Seismometers placed on the Moon’s surface decades ago by Apollo astronauts have recorded significant seismic activity. Recent data analysis shows that the Moon is subject to frequent moderate to severe surface earthquakes.
Due to low gravity, these earthquakes can last for hours and even mild tremors can cause serious landslides. The proposed fiber optic network aims to significantly expand our ability to record and map the Moon’s seismic activity using a new sensor array.
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Although scientists are not yet sure of the cause of earthquakes on the Moon, one theory is that these earthquakes are part of the Moon shrinking due to its cooling core. The fiber network can provide a clearer idea of the size and characteristics of the core.
Innovative technology and its challenges
The distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) process can enable real-time, continuous measurements across tens of kilometers of cable by using Rayleigh scattering resulting from the refractive index fluctuations of fibers.
However, installing DAS cables presents a significant challenge. The researchers suggest that this mission could be completed by either autonomous vehicles or Artemis astronauts. Future infrastructure projects on the Moon include plans ranging from nuclear reactors to roads and landing pads.
These include other infrastructure projects, such as NASA’s plan to install a radio telescope in a crater on the dark side of the Moon. Our better understanding of the Moon’s seismology could improve the safety and effectiveness of future lunar missions.
The establishment of this fiber network represents a new era in space exploration and lunar exploration. What do you think about this development? What impact will studying the Moon’s seismology have on future space missions? Don’t forget to share your opinions!