Underground cave found on moon could be ideal base for explorers

[Judi Lynn]

6. Moon cave a 'possible option' for lunar base, experts say

By Aoife Hilton
Posted 2h ago



A hole on the moon.
The cave is approximately 100 metres deep and 45 metres wide.(Supplies: NASA/GSFC/Arizona State University

• In short: Researchers have found a "possible option" for a lunar base — amid a mysterious Moon cave.
  
  
• The cave sits at a balmy temperature of 17C, making it suitable for human habitation.
  
  
• What's next? An expert has recommended space farers explore the sub-surface of the Moon.

New research has indicated that a cave found on the Moon provides ideal conditions for human exploration.

Research published in the journal Nature Astronomy yesterday analysed images that NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) spacecraft took in 2010 of a pit in the Mare Tranquillitatis. The site, where Apollo 11 landed in 1969, is visible from Earth.

The Nature Astronomy paper confirmed previous research from Geophysical Research Letters last year, which indicated the pit led to a Moon cave. The cave extends approximately 100 metres deep and at least 45m wide, the study says.

It has a skylight on the Moon's surface, leading down to vertical and overhanging walls, and a sloping floor that might extend further underground.

More:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-07-16/cave-discovered-on-the-moon/104102032