Researchers have found a substantial underground cave on the moon accessible from the surface, potentially ideal for a future lunar base. The cave is reachable from an open pit in the Mare Tranquillitatis, where Apollo 11 astronauts first landed. Radar data from NASA's lunar reconnaissance orbiter (LRO) revealed that the pit, the deepest known on the moon, leads to a cave 45 meters wide and up to 80 meters long, lying about 150 meters beneath the surface. This cave, likely an empty lava tube, could provide natural shelter for future explorers against the harsh lunar environment.
Pits on the moon, spotted over a decade ago, are thought to be "skylights" connecting to underground caves formed through volcanic processes. These caves could offer stable temperatures and protection from cosmic rays, solar radiation, and micrometeorites, making them suitable for a moonbase or emergency shelter. The Mare Tranquillitatis pit, with boulders up to 10 meters wide, was uncertain as an entry point to an underground cave until LRO data confirmed its connection.
Researchers aim to study the cave's rocks for insights into the moon’s formation and volcanic history and to find water ice essential for long-term missions. At least 200 pits on the moon could be entrances to lava tubes. Caves offer structural advantages for human bases without complex construction. Space agencies are planning to assess cave stability and reinforce structures for future human habitation, monitoring for seismic activity and ensuring safety.
However, access remains challenging, requiring significant infrastructure to descend into the pit and manage the loose debris on the steep slope.
