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The enigma of lunar magnetismCurrent understandings of the nature and probable origin of lunar magnetism are surveyed. Results of examinations of returned lunar samples are discussed which reveal the main carrier of the observed natural remanent magnetization to be iron, occasionally alloyed with nickel and cobalt, but do not distinguish between thermoremanent and shock remanent origins, and surface magnetometer data is presented, which indicates small-scale magnetic fields with a wide range of field intensities implying localized, near-surface sources. A detailed examination is presented of orbital magnetometer and charged particle data concerning the geologic nature and origin of magnetic anomaly sources and the directional properties of the magnetization, which exhibit a random distribution except for a depletion in the north-south direction. A lunar magnetization survey with global coverage provided by a polar orbiting satellite is suggested as a means of placing stronger constraints on the origin of lunar crustal magnetization.
Document ID
19820040135
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Hood, L. L.
(Arizona, University Tucson, AZ, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
April 21, 1981
Publication Information
Publication: EOS
Volume: 62
Issue: 16, A
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
82A23670
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7020
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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