Discovery of Underground Caves on the Moon - Mystery Hunter

The recent discovery of underground caves on the Moon could potentially solve several challenges faced by humans in establishing habitats there. Radar data analysis reveals a large hole in the lunar crust that could lead to a network of caves, which may serve as shelters for future lunar explorers.

Discovery of Underground Caves on the Moon

We've known about "skylights" or holes on the Moon's surface for a long time. However, we now have concrete evidence of their existence. "These caves have been suspected for over 50 years, but this is the first time we've managed to prove their existence," said Lorenzo Bruzzone, an astronomer from the University of Trento in Italy.

These caves could offer protection from cosmic radiation and extreme temperature changes on the Moon's surface. Such protection is crucial for supporting human life during long-term missions.

Environmental Challenges on the Moon

The Moon's environment is vastly different from what we know on Earth, making it less hospitable to human physiology. There's no atmosphere to breathe, and temperatures can be extremely harsh. A lunar day lasts about 14 Earth days with temperatures reaching up to 121 degrees Celsius, while the lunar night also lasts 14 Earth days with temperatures dropping to -133 degrees Celsius. Additionally, solar and cosmic radiation pose serious threats as the Moon lacks a protective atmosphere like Earth.

Advantages of Underground Caves

1. 1. Protection from Radiation:

On the Moon's surface, radiation from the sun and space is highly dangerous for humans. Underground caves could serve as natural shields, protecting astronauts from these harmful effects.

1. 2. Stable Temperatures:

Temperatures on the Moon's surface can vary drastically between day and night. Underground caves tend to have more stable temperatures, creating a more comfortable environment for astronauts.

1. 3. Protection from Micrometeorites:

The Moon lacks an atmosphere to destroy micrometeorites before they reach the surface. Underground caves provide additional protection from this threat, keeping astronauts and their equipment safe.

Challenges to Overcome

1. 1. Access and Infrastructure:

Building safe and easy access to the caves is a challenge in itself. Special technology and equipment are required to explore and develop these caves into habitable spaces.

1. 2. Structural Integrity of the Caves:

The stability and durability of the cave structures need to be ensured before they can be used as habitats. Further research is necessary to confirm that these caves are safe from structural collapse.

Evidence of Lava Tubes on the Moon

Lava tubes are not only found on Earth but have also been discovered on Mars and are believed to exist extensively on the Moon. Scientists are interested in these lava tubes because they could serve as safe locations to establish human bases on the Moon, protecting against the harsh surface environment.

Complex signal processing of radar data shows reflections from hole areas best explained by the presence of underground cave channels. This provides the first direct evidence of accessible lava tubes beneath the Moon's surface.

Observations and Evidence

A research team led by astronomer Leonardo Carrer from the University of Trento identified the presence of underground caves through radar data collected in 2010 by NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. The radar detected a hole on the Moon's surface, a "skylight," resulting from the collapse of a part of a lava tube.

The next step is to model the tunnel shape beneath the skylight. The most likely structure is a lava tube extending from the skylight into the Moon's interior. Scientists and engineers will continue to conduct in-depth research on these caves. Further exploration will help understand their potential and risks, as well as determine the steps needed to utilize these caves.

Landing Site Considerations

Landing sites for crewed missions must be carefully considered. Although humans have already been sent to the Sea of Tranquility, the Moon's polar regions, with interesting features like craters that might contain water ice, may be prioritized for future missions.

The discovery of a single lava tube on the Moon indicates the possibility of more caves waiting to be found. Identifying these locations could help determine the best sites for long-term lunar bases. This research underscores the importance of using lunar radar data to answer fundamental science and exploration questions and highlights the need for continued remote data collection.



Source: Sciencealert / Nature Astronomy