Whenever we look at the night sky and observe the moon, which is 384,000 kilometers away from our earth (average distance), have you ever wondered: how many kinds of rocks are there on the moon? Here comes the answer!
1:2.5 million full moon rock type distribution map in English version thumbnail
On October 31, the world's first 1:2.5 million full moon rock type distribution map led by Shandong University was released.
The figure divides the lunar surface materials into three categories: lunar sea rocks, non-lunar sea rocks and special rocks, expressing a total of 17 rock types. Among them, 5 types of lunar basalts (including 923 lava flow units in total), 7 types of non-lunar rocks (including 1210 lithological units and 434 lithologic outcrops in total) and 5 types of special rock outcrops (including 115 lithologic types in total) unit with 779 lithologic outcrops).
The research results were published in the international comprehensive journal "Science Bulletin" on October 31.
Comprehensive information on lunar rocks
It is understood that this map is a comprehensive expression of the current distribution of material components on the lunar surface and related knowledge, and can be used as a plan for lunar scientific research exploration missions.
Sampling returns the basic data for the selection of the target area, and can also provide a reference for the mapping of other rocky terrestrial planets in the future. The 1:2.5 million full moon rock type distribution map is divided into Chinese and English versions, and will be officially released by the Geological Press in paper and electronic versions.
