Scientists Date South Pole-Aitken Basin on Moon

Recent studies have significantly advanced our understanding of the Moon's history, particularly regarding the South Pole–Aitken (SPA) basin, the largest and oldest impact crater on the Moon. New research indicates that the SPA basin was formed between 4.32 and 4.33 billion years ago, which is roughly 120 million years earlier than previously thought, suggesting a more gradual process of impacts rather than a concentrated bombardment period. This finding, derived from the analysis of the lunar meteorite Northwest Africa 2995, has implications for understanding both the Moon's and Earth's early histories. Additionally, a separate study on Apollo 16 samples revealed that lunar dust contains noble gases that provide timestamps of space weather processes and impacts over billions of years, offering insights into the Moon's evolution. These studies collectively inform plans for future lunar exploration and the potential establishment of bases on the Moon, as they highlight the Moon's complex geological history and its resource potential.