Lunar basalt in maria contains higher titanium oxide (TiO2) levels than typical rocks. Some regions have up to 13% TiO2. This was mapped by missions like Clementine and Lunar Prospector. Titanium influences albedo, density, and potential extraction for future industry. Lunar mining studies focus on these deposits. Ti-rich basalts tell stories of mantle composition. Different maria have distinct concentrations.
It matters for resource utilization and in-situ manufacturing. Titanium could be used for construction and aerospace materials.
It also helps understand volcanic and mantle processes. Ti distribution reflects ancient lava flow origins.
Some maria contain double the titanium of Earth basalts.
NASA [nasa.gov]