Underground caves do exist on the Moon, radar observations confirm

Space Caves: A New Frontier for Lunar Exploration

Space Caves: Italian scientists have presented evidence of underground caves on Earth’s natural satellite. Researchers and space companies are already enthusiastic about the future scientific and business prospects of a large-scale colonization of the Moon.

A recent study published in Nature reveals the discovery of an “accessible cave conduit” on the Moon, located beneath the Mare Tranquillitatis pit. This finding has sparked excitement among experts, who see the potential for establishing permanent lunar outposts within these underground structures.

Led by Leonardo Carrer from the University of Trento, a team of researchers utilized data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) to confirm the existence of natural lava tubes on the Moon. These stable structures offer a promising opportunity for future human missions to establish bases and conduct research in a protected environment.

Through radar analysis and 3D simulations, the researchers identified the Mare Tranquillitatis pit as the deepest known lunar pit, providing valuable insights into the Moon’s subsurface topography. With over 200 similar pits scattered across the lunar surface, there is significant potential for further exploration and utilization of these underground spaces.

While the Moon presents challenges such as extreme temperatures and lack of atmosphere, the stable conditions within underground caves offer a more hospitable environment for human exploration. With temperatures around 17 degrees Celsius and protection from external threats, these caves could serve as ideal locations for future lunar missions.

Researchers are now advocating for a comprehensive survey of lunar pits to identify potential access points for subsurface exploration. By leveraging the findings from this study, we can pave the way for establishing human bases on the Moon and advancing our understanding of outer space.

NASA’s Artemis program is at the forefront of lunar exploration efforts, aiming to establish a permanent human presence on the Moon. The discovery of underground caves holds the promise of unlocking new possibilities for space exploration and shaping the future of the lunar economy.