When planning long-term missions to the Moon as part of the Artemis program, scientists have been concerned for many years about the potential danger of lunar dust. Could inhaling it be fatal for astronauts? A new study has revealed some unexpected results.
Lunar dust is less toxic than previously thought
A group of Australian scientists from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) published the results of a thorough analysis of the impact of lunar dust on human lungs in the journal Life Sciences in Space Research. They focused on the smallest particles capable of penetrating deep into the respiratory system. Using modern simulations of lunar soil and testing them on lung cells, researchers have concluded that lunar dust is significantly less dangerous than previously thought. In fact, it may pose less of a threat than polluted air in large cities on Earth.
“Although lunar dust can cause some irritation to the respiratory tract, it does not appear to pose a risk for chronic diseases,” explained Mikaela Smith, a UTS graduate student and lead author of the study.
Scientists were most concerned about the potential development of silicosis, a serious lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, which is widespread on Earth. According to the study, lunar dust does not cause such destructive effects or inflammation.
Important step for Artemis
These findings are a real relief for NASA’s Artemis mission planners, whose goal is to establish a long-term human presence on the Moon. With all the challenges we already face, like no oxygen or radiation, the toxicity of the soil covering the whole surface of the moon would be a big deal.
“The results contribute to the safety of returning humans to the Moon,” emphasized study co-author Professor Brian Oliver.
Discomfort is inevitable
Although the long-term danger seems minimal, researchers caution that deliberately inhaling lunar dust is a bad idea. “Any dust, when inhaled in sufficient quantities, can cause coughing, sneezing, and physical irritation,” noted Mikaela Smith.
But the key difference is that lunar dust is not highly toxic, unlike silica. In other words, although astronauts will not develop chronic diseases from accidental contact, it is still necessary to avoid dust in order to prevent acute reactions in the body. Science has disproved the threat posed by dust on the Moon, but it remains an undesirable companion for future explorers.
We previously reported on how lunar dust would become a source of energy for space bases.
According to uts.edu.au
