Moonquake predetermination and tides

Abstract

A pattern in moonquakes, which correlates with the monthly tidal cycle, also correlates with a phase-shifted pattern of a 7-month tidal cycle. The lead of approximately 2 months in moonquake occurrence can be explained if local tidal forces are combined with a moonquake-driving force. This force, assumed to result from the 6-yr physical libration in latitude, would cause N-S sliding of an outer layer across a solid layer within a decoupled core in a lunar model. During 1969-1971, the sliding would be southward with a progression of monthly maxima in the combined forces. Where these forces control moonquakes, the reversal in direction of the 6-year cyclic force in early 1972 should cause a minimum in moonquake activity. Decreases toward such a minimum did occur simultaneously in the similar progressions of monthly moonquakes and maxima in the combined forces at the most active hypocenter. Repetition of the 1966-1971 force pattern in 1975-1977 should produce a corresponding repetition of the moonquake pattern.