Current meteoroid models indicate that the moon is struck by a meteoroid with a mass greater than 1 kg (2 lbs) over 260 times per year. This number is very uncertain, however, as observations for objects in this mass range are embarrassingly few -- a single fireball survey conducted by Canadian researchers from 1971 to 1985. Factors of several, higher or lower, are easily possible. Indeed recent lunar observations by a Spanish team seem to indicate that the rate of impacts is about two times higher. This too is quite uncertain, being based on observations of only 3 impacts. Clearly more observations are needed if we are to establish the rate of large meteoroids impacting the moon.

Why it is important: U.S. Space Exploration Policy eventually calls for extended astronaut stays on the lunar surface. Spacecraft, vehicles, habitats, and EVA suits must all be designed to withstand the stresses posed by the harsh lunar environment over this period of time. Meteoroids, and the ejecta produced when they create impact craters, are part of this environment.

HUNDREDS OF TRANSIENT LUNAR PHENOMENA REPORTS OVER THE LAST FEW HUNDRED YEARS HAVE FAILED TO MAKE AN IMPACT ON THE SCIENTIFIC COMMUNITY DUE TO A LACK OF HARD IRREFUTABLE EVIDENCE.

HOPEFULLY IMAGING WILL PROVIDE SUCH EVIDENCE.

I AM EXPANDING THE DEFINITION OF TRANSIENT LUNAR PHENOMENA TO INCLUDE LUNAR METEOROID IMPACTS AND UNUSUAL LIGHTING PHENOMENA INCLUDING LUNAR LIGHT RAYS

LUNAR LIGHT RAYS ARE INDEED TRANSIENT, ELUSIVE AND VERY BEAUTIFUL ,

I WANT TO THANK ROB ROBINSON OF ROBINSON LUNAR OBSERVATORY FOR MAKING ME AWARE OF THEM