Moonquakes: The Moon Is Not Completely Dead

Moonquakes are seismic vibrations that occur on the Moon similar to earthquakes on Earth but caused by very different processes. For a long time, scientists believed the Moon was completely geologically dead. However, data from seismometers left by Apollo astronauts revealed that the Moon still experiences internal activity proving it is not entirely inactive.

One major type of moonquake is deep moonquakes which originate about 700 km beneath the lunar surface. These are the most common and are caused by gravitational interactions between the Moon, Earth and the Sun. As the Moon orbits Earth, tidal forces stretch and compress its interior generating regular seismic vibrations.

Another type is shallow moonquakes which are far more powerful and potentially dangerous. These occur closer to the surface and can last much longer than earthquakes on Earth sometimes up to 10 minutes. Their exact cause is still uncertain but they are likely linked to tectonic stress as the Moon slowly cools and shrinks over time.

The Moon also experiences thermal moonquakes which happen due to extreme temperature changes. Lunar days and nights last about two Earth weeks each causing dramatic heating and cooling. This temperature stress makes the surface expand and contract producing small seismic tremors.

Finally, meteorite impacts cause another form of moonquakes. Since the Moon lacks a thick atmosphere, meteoroids frequently strike its surface sending vibrations through its rocky body. These impacts help scientists understand the Moon’s internal structure by analyzing how seismic waves travel through it.

Together, these moonquakes reveal that the Moon is not a silent lifeless rock. Instead, it is a slowly evolving world with internal processes that still shape it today an important lesson for future lunar exploration and long term human presence.