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Lunar seismicity, structure, and tectonicsNatural seismic events have been detected by the long-period seismometers at Apollo stations 16, 14, 15, and 12 at annual rates of 3300, 1700, 800, and 700, respectively, with peak activity at 13- to 14-day intervals. The data are used to describe magnitudes, source characteristics, and periodic features of lunar seismicity. In a present model, the rigid lithosphere overlies an asthenosphere of reduced rigidity in which present-day partial melting is probable. Tidal deformation presumably leads to critical stress concentrations at the base of the lithosphere, where moonquakes are found to occur. The striking tidal periodicities in the pattern of moonquake occurrence and energy release suggest that tidal energy is the dominant source of energy released as moonquakes. Thus, tidal energy is dissipated by moonquakes in the lithosphere and probably by inelastic processes in the asthenosphere.
Document ID
19740038461
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Lammlein, D. R.
Latham, G. V.
Dorman, J.
Nakamura, Y.
Ewing, M.
(Texas, University Galveston, Tex., United States)
Date Acquired
August 7, 2013
Publication Date
February 1, 1974
Publication Information
Publication: Reviews of Geophysics and Space Physics
Volume: 12
Subject Category
Space Sciences
Accession Number
74A21211
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS9-13143
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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