Scientists have long believed that the moon formed 4.5 billion years ago, based on studies of lunar rocks. However, dating the lunar surface has remained a challenge. Traditionally, scientists have relied on counting craters to estimate the age of sections of the lunar crust. Unlike Earth, the moon lacks erosion and plate tectonics that could erase craters, making it possible to count them and determine how long they took to form. But this method has sometimes produced conflicting dates compared to the analysis of rocks brought back from the Apollo missions.
Fortunately, researchers have now found a solution to this discrepancy. In a groundbreaking study conducted in France and Norway, scientists combined the two dating methods. They examined lunar samples collected during the Apollo, Luna, and Chang’e missions, while also counting craters around the sites where these rocks were found. By generalizing this information, they were able to apply it to sections where lunar samples have not yet been retrieved.
The findings of this study indicate that large portions of the lunar crust are about 200 million years older than previously believed. Stephanie Werner, a geologist at the University of Oslo’s Centre for Planetary Habitability, explains that this new dating system alters the age of all areas of the Moon’s surface, with the oldest surfaces showing the most significant changes. For example, Mare Imbrium, a massive crater that was eventually filled by lava flows and became the right eye of the Man in the Moon, is now estimated to be 4.1 billion years old instead of 3.9 billion years.
Werner emphasizes the importance of this discovery, as it allows us to extend our understanding of the intense period of bombardment from space that occurred before the volcanic activity responsible for the Man in the Moon patterns. Moreover, this research could provide insights into the geological history of Earth and possibly Mars, as it is likely that these planets also experienced similar bombardment.
In conclusion, this breakthrough in dating methods opens up new possibilities for understanding the moon’s history and its relationship to other celestial bodies. By combining multiple approaches, scientists have gained a more accurate understanding of the moon’s formation and evolution.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
