Scientists have confirmed the existence of a cave on the moon near where Apollo 11 astronauts landed in 1969.
The cave was detected using radar data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. It is located within a lava tube pit on the Sea of Tranquility.
The cave is estimated to be at least 40 meters wide and several meters long, but the radar only detected the initial part so it could be larger.
Researchers believe there are hundreds of potential caves on the moon created by collapsed lava tubes. These caves could shelter astronauts from radiation and meteorites.
Living and working in caves would be easier than building underground habitats from scratch. Materials untouched by surface conditions could also provide scientific insights.
Most lava tubes are found in ancient lunar plains, but some may exist at the moon’s south pole, a future destination for manned landings due to potential water ice.
The discovery suggests caves could be a natural resource for establishing long-term lunar bases, helping achieve NASA’s goal of sustainable exploration and development.
Source: AP
