Tiny Glass Beads Reveal Unexpected Volcanic Activity on the Moon
Beijing, China– A recent analysis of lunar samples brought back by China’s Chang’e-5 mission has revealed that volcanic activity on the moon persisted much longer than previously thought, with eruptions occurring as recently as 120 million years ago. This discovery challenges our understanding of the moon’s geological history and suggests that the lunar interior may be more active than previously believed.
The research, publishedin the journal Science, focuses on the analysis of over 3,000 tiny glass beads found within the lunar samples. These beads, formed by the rapid cooling of molten rock, are a key indicator of volcanic activity. Scientistsfrom the Chinese Academy of Sciences, led by Bi-Wen Wang and Qian W.L. Zhang, meticulously categorized the beads, examining their chemical composition, physical texture, and sulfur isotopes to distinguish between those originating from volcanic eruptions and those createdby meteorite impacts.
The team identified three glass beads that exhibited distinct characteristics consistent with volcanic origin. Using radiometric dating techniques, they determined that these beads formed around 123 million years ago, with a margin of error of 1.5 million years. This age is significantly younger than the previously estimated timeframefor lunar volcanism, which was believed to have ceased around 2 billion years ago.
The volcanic glass beads were found to contain high concentrations of potassium, phosphorus, and rare earth elements, collectively known as KREEP elements. These elements are known to be radioactive and generate heat, which researchers believe played a crucial rolein the late-stage volcanic activity. The localized heating caused by KREEP elements likely melted portions of the moon’s mantle, triggering small-scale eruptions that brought molten rock to the surface.
This discovery is a game-changer, said Dr. Wang. It suggests that the lunar interior is not ascold and inactive as we previously thought. The presence of KREEP elements and their ability to generate heat could potentially fuel future volcanic activity on the moon.
The finding has significant implications for our understanding of the moon’s evolution. It suggests that the lunar interior may still hold pockets of molten rock, which could potentially influencethe moon’s magnetic field and provide insights into the early evolution of the solar system.
The study also highlights the challenges in distinguishing between volcanic and impact-generated glass beads. In a related commentary, Yuri Amelin and Qing-zhu Yin, researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles, emphasize the importance ofcareful analysis and the need for further research to refine our understanding of lunar volcanism.
The discovery of late-stage volcanic activity on the moon underscores the dynamic nature of our celestial neighbor and the potential for further surprises as we continue to explore its surface and interior. Future missions, equipped with advanced instruments and techniques,will undoubtedly provide even more insights into the moon’s complex geological history and its ongoing evolution.
Views: 0