Solar Wind at Martian Moon Could Impact Future Missions

The video discusses Phobos, a moon of Mars, and its interaction with the solar wind. Phobos orbits close to Mars and lacks an atmosphere, causing it to directly encounter the solar wind. This interaction creates a negative electric potential on its night side, affecting its surface and the Stickney Crater. These phenomena pose challenges for future exploration missions, as static charges could impact equipment.

What is a unique feature of Phobos compared to other moons?

• It orbits very close to Mars.

• It is the largest moon in the solar system.

• It has a thick atmosphere.

• It has a strong magnetosphere.

Why is the solar wind considered electrically neutral?

• It has no charged particles.

• It has equal numbers of electrons and ions.

• It consists only of negatively charged electrons.

• It consists only of positively charged ions.

What happens to the solar wind on the night side of Phobos?

• It becomes a solid mass.

• It creates a void that electrons rush to fill.

• It becomes positively charged.

• It increases in density.

What is a potential risk for future missions exploring Phobos?

• Lack of oxygen for astronauts.

• High temperatures on the surface.

• Static electric charge buildup.

• Strong gravitational pull.

How does the Stickney crater become electrically charged?

• Through volcanic activity.

• By reflecting solar wind.

• By absorbing sunlight.

• Through the same process as the night side of Phobos.