Global Lunar Geophysical Science

Lunar Science: The Moon provides a unique opportunity to study fundamental questions about the origin and evolution of the inner solar system. While it is widely believed that the Moon was created by the collision of a large object with the Earth during early planetary formation, this has not been conclusively proven. Furthermore, the mechanisms and processes by which this may have occurred are not well understood. An investigation of the composition and structure of the deep interior of the Moon may help answer some of these mysteries [1]. The Lunar interior serves as a time capsule providing clues to its initial composition, differentiation, crustal formation and possible ancient magnetic dynamo. The best, and in some cases the only way to determine the composition and structure of the deep crust, mantle and core is to conduct geophysical measurements [2]. The NRC report, The Scientific Context for Exploration of the Moon – Interim Report, finds that “Long-duration geophysical stations ... implemented at multiple (six or more) sites are required to provide comprehensive subsurface information” [3].