A recent NASA study published in Nature on May 14, 2025, reveals significant asymmetry between the near and far sides of the Moon. Researchers analyzed data from the GRAIL mission, which mapped the Moon's gravitational field.
The study found the near side is warmer and more geologically active than the far side. This is due to the accumulation of radioactive elements in the mantle of the near side, generating heat.
This discovery helps explain the surface differences between the two sides. It also provides a foundation for future lunar missions, like the Artemis program, by improving navigation and landing route planning.
The methodology used in this study could be applied to other celestial bodies. This marks a shift in space research, focusing on how the interior influences the surface.
The Moon remains a key focus for scientific discovery, and this study is a significant step in understanding its geological history and influence on Earth.