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Lunar far side data suggests strong magnetic field 4.2 billion years ago
Key points
- Moon's far side data analyzed by ETH Zurich researchers.
- Evidence suggests a lunar magnetic field 4.2 billion years ago.
- Field strength estimated at over ten microtesla.
- Supports the theory of an ancient lunar dynamo.
New Evidence for Ancient Lunar Magnetic Field
Researchers at ETH Zurich, in collaboration with DLR and the Technical University of Berlin, have presented new evidence supporting the theory that the Moon once possessed an internally generated magnetic field. This finding addresses a long-standing debate among scientists regarding contradictory evidence from lunar rock samples.
Methodology and Findings
Instead of analyzing rock samples, the team utilized gravity measurements from NASA's GRAIL probes and magnetic field models derived from Lunar Prospector and Kaguya missions. They focused on the Dewar region on the Moon's far side. Their analysis of the lunar crust's structure and magnetization in this area suggests a magnetic field existed 4.2 billion years ago.
The estimated strength of this ancient magnetic field was over ten microtesla, which is between one-fifth and one-third of Earth's current magnetic field strength. This indicates a significant magnetic presence in the Moon's early history.
Addressing the Dynamo Debate
The existence of a past lunar magnetic field, similar to Earth's geodynamo, has been a subject of debate. While some rock samples suggest a strong, ancient field, others show no such evidence. This new study provides support for the dynamo theory, suggesting that the Moon's core generated a magnetic field several hundred million years after its formation.
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Reporting from
Researchers at ETH Zurich used gravity and magnetic field data from the Moon's far side to determine the lunar crust's structure and magnetization in the Dewar region. Their findings indicate the Moon had an internally generated magnetic field over ten microtesla 4.2 billion years ago, supporting the lunar dynamo theory.