Luminescence and Reflectance of Tranquillity Samples: Effects of Irradiation and Vitrification

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Abstract
Luminescence measurements of Tranquillity samples indicate that energy efficiencies for excitation by protons and ultraviolet are in the range 10-6 or below; natural and induced thermoluminescence is even weaker. If these samples are typical, lunar surface luminescence cannot occur at reported levels. Comparison of proton luminescence spectra from the exterior and interior of rocks and fine fragments provides evidence of solar wind impingement on the moon's surface. Spectral reflectance and albedo measurements of fresh rock powders before and after both laboratory proton irradiation and fusion indicate that vitrification may be an important mechanism of lunar darkening.