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Updated: Jul 12, 2026
06:14
Simulating Imaging of Large Scale Radio Arrays on the Lunar Surface
Published on: July 30, 2020
Summary
Scientists mapped the Moon's gravity using Apollo subsatellite and Lunar Orbiter 5 data. This revealed distinct gravity patterns on the near and far sides, suggesting a thicker farside crust.
Area of Science:
- Lunar Geophysics
- Planetary Science
- Gravimetry
Background:
- Understanding the Moon's gravity field is crucial for deciphering its internal structure and evolution.
- Previous gravity models were limited in resolution and global coverage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine a global lunar gravity field using long-term orbital data.
- To compare lunar gravity with topography and investigate hemispheric differences.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of long-term orbital motion data from Apollo 15 and Apollo 16 subsatellites.
- Incorporation of data from the Lunar Orbiter 5 mission.
Main Results:
- A global lunar gravity map was successfully generated.
- The nearside gravity map correlates well with known mascon basins.
- The farside gravity map shows positive anomalies in highlands and negative anomalies in basins, differing from the nearside.
Conclusions:
- The observed gravitational differences between the lunar hemispheres may be attributed to a thicker crust on the farside.
- This study provides a more comprehensive understanding of lunar gravity and its relationship to surface features.
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