Photon-stimulated disorption as a substantial source of sodium in the lunar atmosphere
Article Abstract:
The tenuous atmospheres of Mercury and the Moon contain atomic sodium and potassium which must be continuously resupplied. Laboratory studies of photon-stimulated desorption of sodium from surfaces simulating lunar silicates, showed that bombardment of the surface by ultraviolet photons leads to efficient desorption of sodium atoms. This is induced by electronic excitations rather than by thermal processes or momentum transfer.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1999
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Ice on the Moon boosts hopes for future lunar missions
Article Abstract:
The apparent discovery of large amounts of ice on the Moon may boost planned lunar missions. However some scientists are more cautious as the discovery is based on reduced counts of medium-energy neutrons detected at the poles detected by a neutron spectrometer, and as such is only preliminary. Japan's Lunar-A spacecraft will launch in February 1999, followed by Selene in 2003, a joint venture between ISAS and NASDA.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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Water amongst the rock
Article Abstract:
Evidence for water ice at the poles of the Moon has been reported by Feldman and colleagues, representing a success for a new type of exploration for NASA. The Lunar Prospector used a direct approach to search for ice which was based on measurements of the abundance and energy spectrum of neutrons. A distinct lack of epithermal neutrons at each pole provided strong evidence for the presence of hydrogen.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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