Recently discovered caves beneath the Moon’s surface could be pivotal for future space colonies.
Space breakthroughs are always thrilling, and this month has witnessed a significant one.
A research team from the University of Trento in Italy has published a study indicating that caves have been identified beneath the Moon’s surface, which could prove incredibly useful.
This discovery is crucial as it suggests that astronauts may eventually find refuge in these caves during space missions.
Scientists have theorized about these caves and tunnels for more than fifty years.
In 2009, experts identified a deep hole on the lunar surface, providing some evidence supporting the existence of these caves.
These formations are believed to have resulted from lava cooling beneath the surface.
For the latest findings, researchers reviewed data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, a spacecraft that has been mapping the Moon since 2009, identifying potential landing sites for future missions.
Lorenzo Bruzzone, the research coordinator, told Wired: “We analyzed these images with complex signal processing technologies recently developed in our laboratory, and found that part of the radar reflections from an area of the Sea of Tranquility can be attributed to an underground conduit.”
Leonardo Carrer, the lead author of the paper, added: “This discovery provides the first direct evidence of an accessible rock tunnel beneath the surface of the moon.
“It is very likely to be an emptied lava tube.”
Scientists have known for a long time that the Moon is a harsh environment for humans.
The Moon is a hostile place due to meteorites and high levels of radiation.
Cosmic and solar radiation on the Moon can be up to 150 times stronger than on Earth, and the threat of meteorites is constant.
Finding sheltered areas is essential for protecting astronauts, and this discovery seems to be a significant step in that direction.
These caves could be essential for the construction of long-term infrastructure on the Moon, potentially serving as temporary homes for astronauts.
However, given their depth, experts suggest that astronauts might need to abseil into these caves and possibly use jet packs to exit, making them less practical for everyday use.