Müoomide

Müoomide is a rare mineral in the silicate class, identified in lunar samples and select iron-rich meteorites. It is characterized by a vitreous to silky luster and a pale blue to gray color with a subtle iridescent sheen caused by trace titanium and iron. The mineral crystallizes in the monoclinic system and has a hardness around 6.5 on the Mohs scale, with a measured density near 3.2 g/cm3. Its refractive indices are moderate, yielding a noticeable birefringence under crossed polars.

Müoomide forms in high-temperature, low-pressure environments typical of lunar volcanism; it is commonly found as microcrystals within glassy impact melts and as inclusions in feldspathic grains of lunar rocks. In meteorites of lunar origin, it occurs as small grains embedded in the matrix.

The mineral was named Müoomide by a team of mineralogists in honor of its Moon origin; the term combines roots referencing the Moon and mineralogy. Its discovery highlights the mineral diversity of extraterrestrial rocks and contributes to studies of lunar geology.

Currently, Müoomide is primarily of scientific interest; its stability at high temperatures and its optical properties make it a candidate for specialized optical experiments and radiation-resistant components, though large-scale extraction on Earth is not feasible due to scarcity.