Shrunken Moon

For centuries the moon has always been there as our source for light in the night sky. But recent studies are showing that the moon is shrinking. Yes, SHRINKING, meaning that the 600 feet already gone from its width is not the end but just the beginning new studies say. The Apollo 15, 16, and 17 recorded and documented 70 lobate scarps found near the moon’s equator. Lobate scarps are geological features which get created when the planet’s overall body cools and contracts. Not only did the Apollo 15, 16 and 17 find 70 lobate scarps, but NASA’s Lunar reconnaissance Orbiter found 14 extra scarps around several widespread locations inferring that the trust faults are scattered globally around its surface. Researchers believe the cause to the scarps forming is due to the cooling of the moon from the molting state it was at before.

This research is based on the overall topic of science, or in more detail space. This is something that most people would not have expected to happen and infer the question on wither the same thing can happen or is happening to Earth. The shrinkage the moon is currently going through is not over yet. Scientist says that since this incident is still fairly new, the moon’s new width is not certain. Contraction on the moon is still occurring therefore more lobate scarps can still be produced and the moons width can still decrease.

To us humans, this is a dilemma that can cause problems to our future since it is the only source of light throughout our nights as well as other forms of necessity. If the moon continues to shrink it will no longer supply us with the aspects needed for survival here on Earth. What if the moon was to completely disappear? Hopefully this question is something that will never come true. From what researchers and scientist are saying, this problem should not grow any larger than where it currently stands. But it is still an issue that needs to be broadcasted to the Earth’s population.

SOURCE: http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/08/100819-science-space-moon-shrinking-scarps-cooling-lunar-orbiter/ The Moon Has Shrunk, and May Still Be Contrasting By: Ker Tran