| Name: Rohan Ginnela |
| Affiliation: University of Mumbai - Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS) |
| Conference ID: ASI2026_430 |
| Title: Comparative studies of Lunar Space Weathering during across Solar Cycle |
| Abstract Type: Poster |
| Abstract Category: Sun, Solar System, Exoplanets, and Astrobiology |
| Author(s) and Co-Author(s) with Affiliation: Rohan Ginnela(University of Mumbai-Department of Atomic Energy Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences (UM-DAE CEBS), Mumbai, Maharashtra.), Rukmini Jagirdar(Department of Astronomy, UCS, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana. 500007) |
| Abstract: Observations of lunar craters across different latitudes have revealed significant morphological and spectral gradients caused by the variations in intensity of the solar wind and micrometeoroid flux. Among the various sources responsible for lunar space weathering, the solar wind plays a dominant role by implanting ions, sputtering surface materials, and facilitating the formation of nanophase iron particles that significantly affect lunar reflectance and maturity. Studies like Asymmetric Optical Maturity, Latitudinal Brightness & Slope Flattening, Polar Softening of Small Craters offer a qualitative analysis of the same. Observations from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) have enabled detailed investigations of space weathering effects, like changes in albedo, optical maturation of regolith, development of swirl features, and variations in surface roughness and composition across different geological terrains. In the current work we attempt a comparative study of lunar space weathering process during periods of solar maximum and solar minimum, when a substantial variation in solar wind flux, energy, and magnetic field is observed. Such studies can improve understanding of the temporal variability of space weathering, offering insights into the interaction between solar wind and the evolution of the lunar surface. |
