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NASA Studies Reveal Hidden Secrets About Interiors of Moon, Vesta
- NASA studies using gravity data from spacecraft orbiting the Moon and asteroid Vesta reveal new insights into their internal structures.
- The Moon study focused on tiny variations in its gravity caused by tidal deformation, leading to the most detailed gravitational map to date that aids in future lunar missions.
- A second study on Vesta suggests a uniform internal structure rather than distinct layers, challenging previous theories about the asteroid's composition.
- Led by Ryan Park, both studies utilized NASA supercomputers to analyze gravity variations and understand the composition of planetary bodies like the Moon and Vesta.
- The Moon's near side shows more flexing than the far side, indicating differences in internal structure possibly due to volcanic activity billions of years ago.
- The Vesta study used rotational properties to reveal a more homogeneous structure with a small core, contrasting with expectations of differentiated layers.
- By measuring inertia changes, scientists can infer the distribution of mass inside asteroids like Vesta, shedding light on their formation and evolution.
- NASA's technique for studying planetary interiors can be applied to other bodies like Io, Ceres, and Jupiter's moons, offering insights across the solar system.
- The studies highlight the importance of gravity data in understanding planetary structures without the need for surface data, opening avenues for future exploration.
- Ryan Park's team continues to apply their technique to various celestial bodies, expanding our knowledge of the diverse compositions and formations in the solar system.
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