Researchers using data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) have discovered that vast caverns resembling Earth’s lava tubes lurk beneath the surface of the Moon, SciTechDaily reports.
Radar studies conducted a decade ago revealed the existence of vast underground formations that could provide natural shelters for future lunar missions.
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Subscribe to the NewsletterAn international team of scientists working with data from the Mini-RF instrument on board LRO has found evidence of a cavern more than 60 meters long, starting at the base of one of the craters.
The exact distance these caves extend is unknown, but scientists speculate that they may extend for many kilometers beneath the lunar surface.
For years, researchers have suspected the existence of such structures based on photographs taken by various lunar orbiters. For example, Japan’s Kaguya mission confirmed the presence of one such cave in 2009.
It is believed that lunar caves formed in a similar way to lava tubes on Earth. When hot lava flows under an already solidified layer of rock, a long void is formed, left behind by the cooling and retreat of the lava.
Over time, some sections of the ceiling may have collapsed, creating pits that resemble skylights leading into the cave.
These underground structures are of great interest for future lunar exploration. They could provide astronauts with protection from extreme temperatures, cosmic radiation, and micrometeorites, making them ideal locations for bases and research stations.
With the new data provided by LRO, scientists now have more information to plan long-term missions to the Moon.
Since its launch in 2009, the LRO mission has collected a wealth of data that helps scientists better understand the Moon’s geology and topography. This information is also important for planning future manned missions.
