LCROSS finds water on the Moon

Enlargements of an image from the Shepherding probe cameras showing the plume generated by the Centaur stage impact on the Moon on 9 October 2009.
Credit: NASA

Has the impact of the Centaur rocket stage observed by the small Shepherding probe on 9 October 2009 finally made it possible to detect the presence of water on our natural satellite? NASA suggests yes, with reservations of principle. We would reiterate that the presentation of the initial results of the LCROSS mission (Lunar CRater Observation Sensing Satellite) a few hours after the crash led to frustration, with scientists not wanting to give an opinion and saying that they wanted to look at the data gathered in more detail (see this article). NASA’s press release on 13 November is predominantly based on the spectroscopic analysis (breaking down of the light which exposes the molecules present) of the double plume of matter ejected during the crashing of the Centaur stage in Cabeus crater at the south lunar pole. The presence of water stands out as the simplest explanation and Anthony Colaprete, chief project scientist, believes that “it is reasonable to say that Cabeus contains water”. However, the exact distribution and proportion of the materials revealed by the impact (there is not just water!) remains to be confirmed and the American Space Agency stresses that the data analysis work is ongoing.

NASA’s press release

Published on 16 November 2009

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