Variability of Hydration Across the Southern Hemisphere of the Moon as Observed by Deep Impact

Measurements of the 3 mu m absorption feature, associated with the presence of hydroxyl and potentially molecular water, were first observed in 2009 by three separate spacecraft' observations. Subsequent observations have revealed widespread but variable hydration over the sunlit regions of the Moon. The variability can help to disentangle the individual contributions of OH and H2O to the 3 mu m absorption feature and provide insight into the mechanism of production and loss of OH/H2O on the lunar surface. We investigate the spatial and diurnal variations of hydration on the southern hemisphere of the Moon as observed by the Deep Impact spacecraft during the lunar flybys in 2009 at spatial scales of 30-70 km/pixel. For a subset of observations of across the lunar south polar region (similar to 2% of the lunar surface), repeat coverage includes three different times spanning half a lunar day, allowing for exploration of diurnal variability. We determine that OH/H2O is widespread but variable across the lunar south pole. At all but the lowest temperatures observed, highland regions have stronger hydration absorption features than the maria. Changes in band strength demonstrate variable loss rates controlled by surface temperatures with H2O lost quicker at higher temperatures. Observed variability in the band shape strongly suggests higher H2O abundance at low temperatures. These observations are strong evidence that the unique shape of the 3 mu m band is due to both OH and H2O. The rapid diurnal evolution of the absorption feature implies that migration of these constituents occurs locally over short distances driven by temperature changes.

Automated summary

Measurements from spacecraft observations have revealed the presence of hydroxyl and potentially molecular water on the Moon, with widespread but variable hydration. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms of production and loss of water on the lunar surface.