The idea is to build a base inside the lunar lava tubes, where astronauts can be protected from rocks on the ceiling.
It’s hard to say without prior research, but there may be lava tubes several hundred meters in diameter on the lunar surface that could provide the necessary shelter for astronauts. The idea is to build a base inside a lunar lava tube that would give astronauts the protection they need. This was reported by Science Alert.
Chinese officials are also working on this idea because moon caves could be a valuable resource.
These formations emerged when the lava flowing on the Moon’s surface began to cool. The top of the lava formed a hardened crust, but molten lava continued to flow from below. This is how empty tubes appeared. Similar natural phenomena also exist on Earth.
Scientists aren’t sure when volcanism on the moon ended. This may have happened a billion years ago, but some evidence suggests little volcanism in the last 50 million years.
On the Moon, astronauts will have to deal with radical temperature changes. One side of the Moon is in direct sunlight half the time, and the surface temperature reaches 127 degrees Celsius; On the dark side, the temperature drops to -173 °C.
Moreover, there is dangerous radiation on the lunar surface, and the radiation is 150 times stronger than on the Earth’s surface. However, in lunar caves, astronauts can be protected by a few meters of rock layer above them.
Scientists from different countries have studied the idea of using lava tubes as shelters. A related study was recently presented at a conference of the Shanghai Academy of Space Technology in China.
Chinese scientists believe there are so many similarities between the lunar and terrestrial lava tubes that they are almost identical.
Entering the pipe at an angle seems less difficult. Although some of the debris needs to be cleared, rovers can easily move towards them. According to Zhang Chunfeng of the Shanghai Academy of Space Technology.
Chinese authorities are prioritizing research into lunar lava tubes in the Sea of Tranquility and Sea of Plenty regions.
There are also plans to create a robotic system that would independently explore caves like the one in the Sea of Tranquility.
The probe must have wheels or robotic legs to adapt to difficult terrain and overcome obstacles.
Let’s remember that the Japanese “lunar sniper” probe showed a frightening photo of the Earth from orbit.
It was also reported that NASA’s observatory showed a star explosion 180 years ago.
Source: Focus
Ashley Fitzgerald is an accomplished journalist in the field of technology. She currently works as a writer at 24 news breaker. With a deep understanding of the latest technology developments, Ashley’s writing provides readers with insightful analysis and unique perspectives on the industry.