Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Chang’e-6 farside basalts reveal a surprising boost in the Moon’s magnetic field 2.8 billion years ago, challenging long-held views of lunar dynamo dormancy.
Analysis shows the lunar magnetic field rebounded after a sharp decline at 3.1 billion years ago, suggesting a dynamic and active lunar interior.
For the first time, paleomagnetic data from the Moon’s farside offers unique insights into the intermediate stages of lunar dynamo evolution.
The resurgence in field strength may have been driven by a basal magma ocean, precessional forces, or core crystallization during this period.
Findings indicate significant fluctuations in the lunar magnetic field between 3.5 and 2.8 billion years ago, pointing to an unstable dynamo.
Led by Prof. Rixiang Zhu, the Chang’e-6 mission provided the first-ever farside basalt samples, opening new doors to lunar magnetic history.
The study suggests the Moon’s deep interior remained geologically active and hot well into its mid-early history, far beyond previous assumptions.
These findings guide future lunar missions, including the search for magnetic reversals and further understanding of the Moon’s thermal evolution.
Published in Nature on December 19, this landmark study reshapes lunar science with support from CAS and other Chinese institutions.