First observed during the Surveyor missions, a phenomenon known as the lunar horizon glow baffled scientists for many years. It is now generally agreed upon that this phenomenon is caused by lunar dust lofting; however, the specifics behind what causes the lofting are still debated. The lunar dust covering the surface of the moon is composed of very fine, jagged dust particles. In addition, the Apollo astronauts found that the lunar dust was difficult to remove from their spacesuits, and posed a hazard to their health. Thus, it is important to understand this dust transport for future lunar missions. Currently, it is proposed that the dust grains on the lunar surface become charged through events such as photoemission and secondary electron emission as well as through exposure to the solar wind. Our study implements a numerical model to resolve the charging of the grains in order to calculate the electrostatic field. When the electrostatic forces exceed gravity and cohesive forces, it is believed that the dust grains will be lofted into the air.
Tuesday, 27 October 2020, 3:30 – 4:30 pm
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