The structure of the double layer behind the Moon

Abstract

The distribution of plasma and electric fields close to the far side of the Moon are discussed. The existence of a strong double layer behind the Moon is predicted and its parameters are investigated. Electric currents associated with this double layer and finite conductivity inside the Moon are estimated. The fluxes of suprathermal electrons behind the Moon in different energy ranges are calculated and compared with the experimental data. It is shown that the theoretical results are in qualitative agreement with the data obtained by Lunar Prospector and the Apollo 15 subsatellite.