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New research, based on data collected by three previous lunar missions, suggests that there may be water on the moon. Paul G. Lucey, a planetary scientist at the University of Hawaii, commented that the moon "is almost as wet as a bone," then added that the water "is in the form of an imperceptible film on soil grains, perhaps several molecules thick." Harvesting this water would not be practical but, during periods of bright sunlight, the hotter lunar surface drives the water to the colder polar regions where it is thought to collect in larger quantities.
This accumulation, it's hoped, may be significant enough to support a permanent manned colony on earth's gray satellite. Such a colony would allow scientists to conduct extensive, first-hand, research on the moon and could serve as a launching pad for more distant explorations. The moon, too, has been seen as a potential source of minerals and even fuel for terrestrial nuclear reactors. All this is fascinating, but could this reserve of lunar water help supplement the endangered water resources of the blue planet?
It's no secret that earth is facing a serious water crisis. Droughts in the Southeastern and Southwestern United States, desertification of Africa and East Asia, and salt encroachment in California's aquifers are but a few signals of the problem. Thanks to overuse, pollution, and climate change, we are approaching a terrifying peak water scenario. An external input of water from an extraterrestrial source could certainly help.
Unfortunately, looking to the stars will not likely provide us with a solution to this or any other environmental problem. Our only chance to solve the issue of water use and contamination is to take action here on earth.
Real Solutions to the Water Crisis
The first step to solving the global water crisis is to take stock of your own impact. Start by calculating your water footprint, then take steps to reduce your consumption.
Making conscious decisions about the food you eat and the products you purchase are easy ways to decrease your footprint.
The next step is to conserve water around the house. Installing a green shower head, reducing the number of dishes you use, and being smart about washing and rinsing are all easy ways to get started.
The moon may be a much wetter place than we had previously imagined, but it's not the answer to earth's water problems; humans are.
Philippe and Alexandra Cousteau talk about water issues in these Blue August videos.
Read more about conserving water:
How to Go Green: Water
Calculate Your Water Footprint
Planet Green's Water Archive
What the Water Crisis Really Means for You and the Planet
25 Things You Might Not Know About Water
Water quizzes and slideshows:
What's Your Water IQ? (Quiz)
An Ocean of Plastic...In Birds' Guts (Slideshow)
Know Your Marine Life? (Quiz)
International Coastal Cleanup Day Action (Slideshow)
Know Your Water Infrastructure? (Quiz)
An Ocean of Inspiration (Slideshow)
