2024 Volume 35 Issue 2 Pages 41-57
In this paper, we provide an overview of the lunar rocks and selenology (geology of the Moon), and also summarize an up-to-date concept of lunar resources and their exploitation. Furthermore, the environmental and disaster risks during the development of the Moon contrast with them on Earth, by taking selenological aspects into consideration. Many plans for lunar exploration and landing on the lunar surface are in progress, and one of the next-step activities on the Moon is constructing living and resource-developing facilities. The specific forms and requirements for these constructions will become clear as the plans progress realistically. It is essential for further discussions to estimate the varieties, characteristics, and quantities of materials that can be sourced from the Moon. Additionally, unique responses are required for lunar development, because the lunar environment differs from the terrestrial one. It is necessary to keep abreast of new knowledge to ensure safe and effective lunar development, since many new findings about the selenology and environment of the Moon, which in some cases are modifying established theories and hypotheses, are acquired every moment.
