Scientists at the University of Trento, located in Italy, have identified a subway cave on the Moon that presents ideal characteristics to host human bases in the future. This access is facilitated by a well located in the Sea of Tranquility, the same place where Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin made history by walking for the first time on the Moon.
How deep is the subway cave on the Moon?
NASA has revealed that this well, the deepest known on the Moon, opens into an extensive cave approximately 45 meters wide and 80 meters long, equivalent to the size of 14 tennis courts. Located about 150 meters below the lunar surface, this cavern provides perfect insulation against the severe lunar weather conditions, solar solar radiation radiation and micrometeorites.
Discovered more than ten years ago, lunar pits often act as skylights leading to subway caverns formed by ancient lava tubes. Recent images captured by NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) have confirmed that this pit, previously covered by large boulders, allows access.
It is worth noting that studying the rocks inside these caves could reveal crucial data about the Moon’s geological and volcanic history. geologic and volcanic history of the Moon and possibly even ice reserves, vital for future missions and colonization.
Do lunar colonization plans move forward?
Space agencies are now evaluating how to reinforce the structure of these caves for future human expeditions. Katherine Joy, Professor of Earth Sciences at the University of Manchester, mentions that the thick ceiling of the caves is ideal for protecting people and infrastructure from the Moon’s drastic temperature fluctuations and dangerous solar radiation.
Despite the promise of these caves as future bases, researchers warn of the complexity of accessing them. Descending more than 100 meters down steep terrain presents significant risks, including small avalanches, underscoring the need to develop solid infrastructure prior to any human attempts at settlement.
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Source: as.com
Photo: shutterstock
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