Robert Lea is a science journalist in the U.K. who specializes in science, space, physics, astronomy, astrophysics, cosmology, quantum mechanics and technology. Rob's articles have been published in Physics World, New Scientist, Astronomy Magazine, All About Space and ZME Science.
It is easy to imagine the moon as an atmosphere-less hunk of rock orbiting Earth. However, while lacking breathable air, our planet's loyal natural satellite companion does have a thin and wispy atmosphere.
Early in the moon's lifetime, the infant solar system was violent and turbulent. As a result, the lunar surface was frequently struck by massive meteorites. As time progressed, collisions between solar system bodies ground many larger space rocks down. This meant that as the moon aged, the bombardment continued, but the assailants shrank to smaller"micrometeoroids," particles from space that are smaller than a grain of sand.
"Based on LADEE's data, it seemed both processes are playing a role," Nie explained."For instance, it showed that during meteorite showers, you see more atoms in the atmosphere, meaning impacts have an effect. The researchers set about isolating two elements in these samples: potassium and rubidium. Both elements are"volatiles," meaning they are easily vaporized by both meteorite strikes and by solar sputtering caused by solar wind bombardment.
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