Lunar neutron capture as a tracer for regolith dynamics.
Abstract
The Apollo 17 Lunar Neutron Probe Experiment measured both the boron-10 neutron capture rate and the uranium-235 neutron-induced fission rate as a function of depth. Cd absorption gave a measure of the neutron energy spectrum. Comparisons of the results are made with theory, and good agreement is obtained for the magnitudes and depth dependences of the capture rates. While the low-energy neutron spectrum at depth agrees with theory, the spectrum near the peak of the flux profile is harder than predicted. In light of these results, several alternatives for interpreting the magnitude and uniformity of the neutron capture data from lunar surface soil samples are outlined. While none of the alternatives can be unquestionably defended or discarded, a surface layer mixing model is discussed in detail.
- Publication:
-
Lunar and Planetary Science Conference Proceedings
- Pub Date:
- 1974
- Bibcode:
- 1974LPSC....5.2061B
- Keywords:
-
- Lunar Soil;
- Neutron Spectra;
- Nuclear Capture;
- Soil Mechanics;
- Apollo 17 Flight;
- Energy Spectra;
- Lunar Exploration;
- Neutron Cross Sections;
- Nuclear Fission;
- Uranium 235;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration