A survey of research on lunar dust dispersal due to rocket plume impingement

Abstract

In recent years, prominent spacefaring nations have redirected their attention towards the Moon as a potential avenue for economic prospects and as a pivotal waypoint for extended space exploration endeavors. Nonetheless, a notable concern has emerged regarding the dispersion of lunar dust during lunar landings, a phenomenon that has been associated with documented instances of equipment damage during prior missions. To mitigate these challenges, leading research institutions are actively engaged in endeavors aimed at minimizing the adverse effects of dust dispersal during lunar and extraterrestrial landings. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of ongoing research and development endeavors focusing on the interaction dynamics between rocket plumes and lunar surfaces, along with the resultant dispersion of lunar dust triggered by rocket plume impingement. Additionally, it presents research efforts aimed at developing lunar dust mitigation technologies.