The Earth’s magnetic field appears to function as a “safety airbag” for our Moon. It results in a 20% reduction in the flux of galactic cosmic rays impacting the far side of the Moon. This finding is significant and will be incorporated into subsequent missions aimed at Selene.
High-energy particles known as galactic cosmic rays continuously bombard unprotected assets in space, leading to equipment damage and posing health risks to humans. Earth is shielded from this impact by its magnetic field, which creates a magnetosphere around the planet, deflecting hazardous charged particles.
A recent study, published in Science Advances, has demonstrated that the Moon also benefits from supplementary protection at specific junctures along its orbit. Scientists conducted an analysis of data gathered from the neutron and dosimetry experiment aboard China’s Chang’e-4 lander.
Experts determined that the detectors registered a 20% decrease in particle counts while the module was situated on the Moon’s far side. These periods coincide with a specific lunar “morning,” lasting approximately two days within each lunar cycle. Observations spanning 31 cycles corroborated the consistency of this phenomenon.
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