A new study, involving scientists from the University of Chicago, has pinpointed the moment the Moon solidified, marking a significant milestone in our understanding of the lunar and Earth's formation.
By analyzing moon rocks retrieved from the Apollo missions, researchers have determined that the Moon solidified 4.43 billion years ago. This precise age was achieved by employing cutting-edge techniques to measure the proportions of lutetium and hafnium in the rocks, revealing the time when the KREEP layer, a distinct layer rich in potassium, rare earth elements, and phosphorous, formed.
The study provides valuable insights into the early stages of the solar system and the formation of the Earth. It suggests that the Moon's solidification occurred shortly after a massive impact event that is believed to have birthed the Moon from debris ejected from the Earth.
This impact, which is estimated to have occurred around 4.45 billion years ago, marked a pivotal moment in Earth's history, potentially leading to the planet becoming habitable. The study's findings align with other research and provide a solid foundation for future lunar exploration missions, such as the Chang'e and Artemis missions.