Mapping of the lunar surface by average atomic number based on positron annihilation radiation from Chang’e-1

Abstract

A map of the average atomic number of lunar rock and soil can be used to differentiate lithology and soil type on the lunar surface. This paper establishes a linear relationship between the average atomic number of lunar rock or soil and the flux of position annihilation radiation (0.512-MeV gamma-ray) from the lunar surface. The relationship is confirmed by Monte Carlo simulation with data from lunar rock or soil samples collected by Luna (Russia) and Apollo (USA) missions. A map of the average atomic number of the lunar rock and soil on the lunar surface has been derived from the Gamma-Ray Spectrometer data collected by Chang’e-1, an unmanned Chinese lunar-orbiting spacecraft. In the map, the higher average atomic numbers (ZA > 12.5), which are related to different types of basalt, are in the maria region; the highest ZA (13.2) readings are associated with Sinus Aestuum. The middle ZA (~12.1) regions, in the shape of irregular oval rings, are in West Oceanus Procellarum and Mare Frigoris, which seems to be consistent with the distribution of potassium, rare earth elements, and phosphorus as a unique feature on the lunar surface. The lower average atomic numbers (ZA < 11.5) are found to be correlated with the anorthosite on the far side of the Moon.

Keywords

• average atomic number
• lunar rock and soil
• positron annihilation radiation
• monte carlo simulation
• chang’e-1 gamma-ray spectrometer