What is it about?
It is about a three-dimensional finite element model we have built to derive lunar surface and subsurface temperatures in order to predict a realistic thermal behavior of the Moon. The model has several features. The model considers the lunar surface as made up of two or more layers with a thin upper layer of very low thermal conductivity. The thickness and several other parameters of these layers can be varied as desired. The model results were validated using laboratory experiments and available data.
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Why is it important?
An important and unique feature is its capability to use the actual surface structure of any region of the Moon and assess its thermal behavior. The model serves as an important and useful tool for handling several geophysical problems and can also help in planning future experiments on the Moon.
Perspectives
This is a unique work which enables to understand the thermophysics of the Moon at varied scales. This serves several applications of science as well as engineering. It will be an important work in the upcoming years in current era of renewed lunar exploration.
K. DURGA PRASAD
Physical Research Laboratory, India
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: A Comprehensive 3D Thermophysical Model of the Lunar Surface, Earth and Space Science, December 2022, American Geophysical Union (AGU),
DOI: 10.1029/2021ea001968.
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