The Moon Is Rusting—Thanks to ‘Wind’ Blown from Earth

image via New Scientist

September 23, 2025, 5:30 PM

• •Oxygen particles from Earth's 'wind' cause lunar minerals to rust.
• •Earth passes between the Sun and Moon monthly, exposing the Moon to Earth's atmosphere.
• •Experiments simulated Earth wind, confirming rust formation on iron-rich minerals.
• •The findings highlight the interconnectedness of Earth and the Moon and the geological record on the Moon.

Scientists have discovered that the Moon is rusting due to oxygen particles from Earth. These particles, carried by 'Earth wind,' interact with lunar minerals, creating haematite, or rust. Experiments show this process, confirming the deep connection between Earth and the Moon. This also reveals how the Moon preserves a geological record of these interactions.

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