The Moon is still shrinking and it could trigger more moonquakes

Researchers have uncovered more than a thousand previously unknown tectonic ridges across the Moon's dark plains, revealing that the lunar surface is far more dynamic than previously thought. This discovery, made using high-resolution images from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, suggests that the Moon is still geologically active. The tectonic activity is a result of the Moon's gradual cooling and shrinking over millions of years, which causes its crust to crack and create these ridges. The presence of these ridges indicates that the Moon's interior is still contracting, albeit slowly. As the Moon continues to cool, its volume decreases, leading to surface deformations. This process is similar to a grape shrinking into a raisin, albeit on a much larger scale. The ongoing shrinkage has the potential to trigger moonquakes, seismic events similar to earthquakes but with distinct lunar characteristics. These moonquakes could provide valuable insights into the Moon's internal structure and thermal evolution. The implications of these findings extend beyond academic curiosity. Understanding the Moon's tectonic activity is crucial for future lunar missions, especially those involving human exploration. Moonquakes could pose risks to astronauts and structures, making it essential to factor this seismic activity into the planning and construction of long-term lunar bases. As researchers continue to analyze data, the Moon's evolving landscape might unlock secrets about planetary formation and the dynamic processes shaping celestial bodies.

— Authored by Next24 Live