A new geological epoch for the Moon, the Lunar Anthropocene, has been proposed by anthropologists and geologists.
According to the report, the epoch depicts the significant impact humans have had on shaping the lunar environment since the start of lunar surface exploration in 1959 - the landing of Luna 2.
To date, more than 140 missions have been launched to the Moon. Although a few have carried humans, most have been robotic orbiters, landers and rovers.
Experts argue that it is vital to study the impact of humans on such surfaces because celestial bodies are not adaptable to human presence.
"On the moon, we argue the Lunar Anthropocene already has commenced, but we want to prevent massive damage or a delay of its recognition," Justin Holcomb, an archaeologist at the Kansas Geological Survey, stated.
Although humans have not established permanent settlements on the surface, scientists are planning to place extensive technology and settlements in the crater.
Holcomb said that disturbance from rovers, landers and human movement is significantly altering the regolith, and with the ongoing space race, the lunar landscape will be unrecognisable in the next 50 years.
The author also expresses his concern that, although scientists have a 'Leave No Trace' policy, discarded spacecraft parts, human waste, scientific equipment and various objects are left behind, threatening the delicate lunar environment.
"The moon's exosphere, composed of dust, gas, and ice in permanently shadowed areas, can be affected by exhaust gas propagation from human activities," the author emphasised in his study published in the journal Nature Geospace.