The Surface Temperature of the Moon

Abstract

Results of numerical calculations are given for (i) the fall in surface temperature during a lunar eclipse, (ii) the variation in surface temperature at the equator during a lunation, and (iii) the variation in microwave temperature at the equator during a lunation. These calculations are made on the assumption that heat is lost from the surface by radiation according to the fourth power law. Two models are considered, firstly, that in which the surface material of the Moon is homogeneous, and secondly, that in which it consists of a thin skin of poor conductor on a better conducting sub-stratum.