New research using moon rocks from the Apollo missions has revealed hidden dangers facing future astronauts.
The study, published in Scientific Reports and led by researchers at Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia, shows that the surface of the moon is more hazardous than we thought—thanks to space weathering caused by constant exposure to radiation and micrometeorites.
Unlike Earth, the moon has no protective atmosphere or magnetic field.
That leaves its surface vulnerable to nonstop bombardment by solar wind, cosmic rays, and tiny space rocks called micrometeorites.
Over time, this exposure changes the structure and chemistry of lunar dust and rocks in ways that could damage space gear and even harm astronauts’ health.
To better understand these changes, scientists used advanced tools to examine Apollo samples at an extremely small scale—down to just tens of nanometers, or a few hundred atoms wide.
This is the first time that nanoscale imaging and spectroscopy tools, normally used for studying electronics, have been applied to moon samples.
By zooming in so closely, the researchers could see how radiation and impacts altered the surface of moon grains.
They found signs of chemical changes, missing atoms, and trapped electrons—clues that reveal the moon’s radiation history and how its surface evolved. These trapped electrons could also build up electric charges that may one day cause sparks, potentially damaging equipment or harming astronauts.
The study also uncovered the presence of elements like neodymium and chromium, which point to the effects of radioactive decay and micrometeorite impacts.
This kind of detailed information can help scientists understand where and how vital resources like water form on the moon—resources that will be critical for future missions under NASA’s Artemis program.
Water on the moon isn’t just for drinking—it can be split into hydrogen and oxygen for fuel and breathing. Knowing where it’s located and how it forms helps plan long-term lunar exploration.
The findings also reveal three major risks to astronauts. First, lunar dust is sharp and could damage spacesuit seals. Second, fast-moving micrometeorites—traveling at over 5 kilometers per second—could puncture spacesuits like bullets. Third, dust that clings to suits could be inhaled, causing health issues.
In the next phase of the project, the team will analyze Apollo samples that have been stored for over 50 years using even more advanced technology.
Their ultimate goal is to build detailed maps of the moon’s surface to guide safe exploration and resource use. With better tools and knowledge, scientists hope to keep future astronauts safe as they take the next giant leap.
