ScienceAugust 19, 2026
micrometeorites
MY-kroh-mee-tee-uh-ryts
Definition
Extremely small particles of rock or mineral matter from space that impact the lunar surface.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek prefix 'mikros' meaning 'small,' combined with 'meteorite,' which originates from the Greek 'meteōron' meaning 'thing in the air' or 'phenomenon in the sky'.
In the news
The article mentions micrometeorites as one of the space-based factors that contribute to the weathering of the lunar regolith. Understanding their impact helps explain why the surface layer of lunar soil appears different from the material found deeper below.
You Can Now See The Before And After Of The SpaceX Collision On The Moon
Read the full article ↗IFLScience