Researchers say ‘global consensus’ is needed within the next few years to protect scientifically important sites
uzz Aldrin, the second man on the moon, described the landscape he stepped on to as “magnificent desolation”. The Apollo landing sites were particularly bland, which was, of course, Nasa’s intention. The spots were selected, in part, for the smoothness of the surface and the lack of troublesome hills, cliffs and craters.
No wonder, then, that space agencies and private companies are planning bases, scientific experiments and mining operations on the moon. Given its size – the lunar surface is nearly three times larger than Antarctica – overcrowding might seem a distant concern. But there are few prime spots on the moon, and land that is perfect for scientific experiments is expected to draw the lion’s share of missions with other activities in mind.
The report calls for a multi-pronged approach to safeguard SESIs. At the national level, it says protection must be written into space policies drawn up by governments, which can authorise and regulate activities and enforce best practice. This is most pressing for countries that have missions bound for the moon imminently.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Niger junta repudiates deal allowing US military bases on its soilSpokesman for coup government stops short of calling for American personnel to leave but says their presence violates sovereignty
Read more »
Researchers Discover Genes Linked to Twins and Fertility StrugglesA Queensland-led team of international researchers has identified seven genes that determine a woman's likelihood of conceiving non-identical twins. Five of these genes are also associated with fertility struggles. The findings bring scientists closer to developing a simple genetic test to predict a woman's chances of having twins and experiencing fertility issues.
Read more »
Researchers take a step towards less invasive ACL injury therapyDoctors are now researching the benefits of a less invasive way of potentially treating ACL injuries.
Read more »
UK researchers find way of diagnosing bowel cancer without biopsiesPET scans can examine entire bowel before and during treatment, avoiding risks associated with taking tissue samples
Read more »
Australia's Cattle Herd Estimate Likely Incorrect, Researchers SayResearchers say the ABS’s estimate of Australia’s cattle herd is likely incorrect, with implications for greenhouse gas emissions reporting.
Read more »
Brain chips: the Sydney researchers ‘miles ahead’ of Elon Musk’s NeuralinkMultiple Australian projects are on the cutting edge of neurotech breakthroughs and man-machine interfaces – raising questions of security and privacy for human minds
Read more »