Scientists measure how fast the Moon is shrinking
Researchers have determined the rate at which the Moon is contracting, a finding that matters for future lunar missions.
By Standard Topic. AI-generated from the reporting listed under Coverage. Published . Updated .
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What happened
Astronomers have determined how fast the Moon is shrinking. Researchers identified more than 10,000 lunar faults, which are linked to moonquakes and landslides.
Why it matters
Understanding moonquakes will be useful for future lunar bases. Scientists say the shrinking could pose a problem for NASA and the safety of future lunar missions.
Timeline
- Oct 14, 3:55 PM ET: Astronomers finally determined how fast the Moon is shrinking.
- Oct 16, 5:51 PM ET: Researchers reported identifying more than 10,000 lunar faults, raising concerns about moonquakes and landslides.
Coverage
- The Moon Is Shrinking, and Scientists Say That Could Be a Problem for NASA (vice.com)
- The moon is shrinking. Astronomers finally know how fast. (popsci.com)
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