/learn/publications/b/blog/posts/usa-satellites-now-orbit-the-moon-map-its-gravity-fieldGRAIL probes render. (via NASA) According to the North American Aerospace Defense Command, there are over 9800+ man-made objects orbiting the Earth. As many now know , this is becoming an issue . Our reach does not stop at our geosynchronous orbit...en-USTelligent Community 12https://community.element14.com/learn/publications/b/blog/posts/usa-satellites-now-orbit-the-moon-map-its-gravity-fieldMon, 02 Jan 2012 22:54:20 GMT93d5dcb4-84c2-446f-b2cb-99731719e767:c5b0e8c5-3190-482f-bb4c-b2f45021656eDAB0<p>Hi Cabe,</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>I suspect that the real mission of the probes is to map the areas where heavy metals exist.&nbsp; Nickel and Iron ore are very important for any future lunar mining activities.&nbsp; The Probes will also locate areas where mining could be easier to begin based upon both metal concentrations and a lack of lava flows, which are not easy to mine.</p><p>The mapping of the gravity may confirm or deny the claim about the moon being blasted off the earth or it may provide data as to other possible origins.&nbsp; Either way, the real issue will be the metal concentrations and the probable locations of water bearing rock.&nbsp; Both are essential for extra-terrestrial exploitation.</p><p>I look forward to seeing the results.&nbsp; Could be some real interesting finds from these probes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>DAB</p><img src="https://community.element14.com/aggbug?PostID=13058&AppID=45&AppType=Weblog&ContentType=0" width="1" height="1">