Thermal breakdown of analog lunar rocks

The proposed research will study the rock breakdown on the Moon due to thermal fatigue caused by the thermal stresses arising from diurnal temperature changes. This is done through data analysis, modeling, and physical experiments. This work is important because it fills a key gap in our understanding of the processes by which the lunar regolith – the name given to the fine debris layer, tens to hundreds of meters thick, that covers the surface of the Moon – forms and evolves. Additionally, understanding the nature and origin of the regolith will be important because the regolith will undoubtedly serve as a key resource for future human exploration and habitation of the Moon.

Faculty Supervisor:

Rebecca Ghent

Student:

Sara Mazrouei

Partner:

Discipline:

Geography / Geology / Earth science

Sector:

University:

University of Toronto

Program:

Globalink