Polarized electromagnetic response of the moonThe strong anisotropy in Apollo 15 Lunar Surface Magnetometer (LSM) signals resulting from electromagnetic induction in the moon, forced by fluctuations of the interplanetary magnetic field, is shown to result from intense polarization of the induced field. Arguments are given to show that the anisotropy cannot be explained wholly by asymmetric lunar induction in the presence of the diamagnetic cavity, but must be related to a regional influence. The weaker Apollo 12 anisotropy may also be associated with a regional influence. The site of Apollo 15 LSM at the edge of the Imbrium Basin suggests a preliminary model for calculations based on the possibility that Imbrium and perhaps Serenitatis are sources of the regional effect. Lastly, since the very low frequency induction seems free of the anisotropy, our earlier estimate of deep conductivity remains unchanged.
Document ID
19750055672
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Sonett, C. P. (Arizona, University Tucson, Ariz., United States)
Smith, B. F.
Colburn, D. S. (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, Calif., United States)
Schubert, G. (California, University Los Angeles, Calif., United States)