Fig. 3 |. The lunar water cycle as suggested by the NMS observations.

The cycle relies on the existence of a desiccated strata overlaying hydrated soils. Solar wind-implanted hydrogen is the main exogenous source of water production. Synthesized water diffuses vertically, and can be sequestered in the hydrated layer or lost at the surface. Water from the hydrated soil is extracted by the far-reaching shockwaves generated by large micrometeoroids that strike the surface. The liberated water escapes or is redeposited elsewhere. To sustain water loss from meteoroid impacts, the hydrated soil layer requires replenishment from a deeper ancient water reservoir.