What is the potential impact that LCROSS will have on the future usability of Shackleton (or other crater(s)) as a base camp / research site for astronauts?
The impact crater that will be made by the LCROSS Centaur impact will be around 20 meters in diameter. Impacts that generate crates this size have occurred though out the history of the moon. Depending on the exact age of the crater floor, one can find 30-100 craters of a similar size to the LCROSS crater per square kilometer. LCROSS is just one more for the record book. The only thing special about the LCROSS impact, relative to all the other natural lunar impacts, is that we know precisely where and when the impact occurs. In terms of size, shape and modification of the terrain, there is little difference (except perhaps the LCROSS crater being a bit more shallow, due to its lower density and slower velocity compared to natural impacts).
Related Questions
- What is the potential impact that LCROSS will have on the future usability of Shackleton (or other crater(s)) as a base camp / research site for astronauts?
- What has been learned about the avalanches that took out the section of line and the potential for similar problems in the future?
- DOES THIS INDUSTRY OFFER A STABLE BASE FOR A PERSONAL CAREER, AND GROWTH POTENTIAL FOR THE FUTURE?
