- P13G-2282: Spectral mapping of the Hydration Feature at the Moon’s Gruithuisen Domes
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Board 2282‚ Hall EFG (Poster Hall)NOLA CC
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Prateek Tripathi, University of Central Florida (First Author, Presenting Author)
Kerri Donaldson Hanna, University of Central Florida
Jessica Sunshine, University of Maryland
Shuai Li, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa
William Farrand, Space Science Inst
Adrienne Dove, University of Central Florida
Benjamin Byron, University of Central Florida
The Moon’s Gruithuisen Domes are rare volcanic formations composed of silica-rich rock. Recent studies suggest these domes may contain more water than expected, challenging the long-held view of the Moon as dry. To investigate, infrared spectrometers aboard India’s Chandrayaan-2 (IIRS) and Chandrayaan-1 (M³) captured detailed images of the domes in wavelengths sensitive to water and hydroxyl (OH) molecules. IIRS, with higher spatial and spectral resolution than previous instruments, enabled precise mapping of hydration features. The analysis reveals that while overall water and OH levels are low, some areas show higher concentrations. These OH-rich zones may be valuable targets for future exploration, including NASA’s upcoming Lunar-VISE mission, which will land at the Gruithuisen Domes. By comparing data across different instruments and applying refined thermal correction techniques, researchers were able to estimate water content down to parts per million. This work offers new insight into how water is distributed in silicic volcanic regions on the Moon, shedding light on their geologic history and informing future exploration and resource assessment strategies.
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