New research suggests that the Moon is not as “dead” as previously thought: dozens of active landslides have been recorded, caused by moonquakes rather than meteorite impacts. This data is crucial for planning future missions and establishing lunar bases.
Chinese researchers have found evidence of active landslides on the Moon’s surface. According to their findings, the majority of these displacements are linked not to asteroid impacts, as previously believed, but to endogenous lunar tremors.
Since 2009, scientists have analyzed 562 pairs of satellite images covering 74 unstable surface areas. The comparison revealed 41 new displacement events. The landslides are relatively small, averaging about 1 km in length, 100 meters in width, and up to 1 meter in depth. Each contains roughly 100,000 cubic meters of material.
However, the researchers note that moonquakes may be more dangerous than Earthquakes of equal magnitude. The Moon’s rocks lack water, which would normally dampen vibrations, so seismic waves dissipate slower and can last for several hours.
Most landslides were observed on the steep slopes of craters, volcanic formations, and relief folds, particularly in the eastern part of the Mare Imbrium basin. Less than 30% coincide with new meteorite craters, which confirms the internal origin of most of the events.
“Our observations are consistent with the Moon’s thermal state; its internal structure remains active enough to generate endogenous tremors,” the scientists state.
This data has practical implications for future missions: it will help map seismic zones and select safe sites for landings and the construction of lunar bases. China, in particular, plans to establish a base at the Moon’s South Pole by 2035.
In 2029, the Chang’e-8 mission will deliver a seismometer to the Moon, allowing for a better study of its internal activity. Scientists anticipate that these observations will help them understand the satellite’s thermal evolution and mitigate risks for astronauts.
