The Plethora of Science Afforded by a Lunar Swirl (original) (raw)

Lunar swirls, unique high-albedo features on the Moon, are characterized by optical youth and high remanent magnetism but lack a clear topographic imprint. The prevailing hypothesis suggests they maintain their appearance due to magnetic shielding from solar wind weathering. A variety of proposed mission platforms, including low-cost cubesats and rovers, are outlined to investigate lunar swirls further, emphasizing sample return opportunities and measurements of the magnetic field and proton flux. These explorations could enhance our understanding of lunar geology and advance planetary science models.