LUNAR DEVELOPMENT HISTORY AND ITS ENGINEERING IMPLICATIONS.

Abstract

Observed data and current theories were studied to explain the selenologic character and engineering properties of the lunar surface. Formation of the moon by accretion of cold particles, followed by internal heating, complete melting, magmatic differentiation and planetary cooling and degassing is postulated. Principal lunar surface features resulted from infall of space debris, magma flows, crustal deformation and surface erosion by sputtering, meteoroid impact and ejecta from primary impacts. Evidence is presented to support the hypothesis. Engineering properties of the lunar surface are postulated for an average marial topographic province. The lunar surface is composed principally of granular material varying as to granular gradation. Soil bearing strength, compaction, adhesion, excavation procedures, trafficability, dust propogation and surface temperatures are considered. Similar engineering data for the highlands may not be induced at this time because of their more heterogeneous character. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1966
Accession Number
AD0633784

Entities

People

  • Bruce M. Hall

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Adhesion
  • Bearing Strength
  • Debris
  • Engineering
  • Erosion
  • Excavation
  • Granular Materials
  • Materials
  • Meteoroids
  • Particles
  • Personality
  • Physical Properties
  • Space Debris
  • Sputtering
  • Surface Temperature

Fields of Study

  • Geology

Readers

  • Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Materials Science and Engineering.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris