For the first time, scientists have demonstrated the existence of a tunnel under the Moon. It appears to be an empty lava tube. This milestone in our knowledge of the Moon was revealed by an international team of scientists led by the University of Trento (Italy). The existence of a lava tube on the Moon was a mystery that was finally solved thanks to them.
The study was published by ‘Nature Astronomy’ and is the result of an international collaboration between researchers from the University of Padua and La Venta Geographic Explorations APS (Italy). “These caves have been theorised about for over 50 years. But this is the first time that we have proven their existence,” explains Lorenzo Bruzzone, professor at the University of Trento.
Empty tube
In 2010, data were obtained that included a pit in Mare Tranquilitatis. “Years later, we reanalyzed these data using complex signal processing techniques. We discovered radar reflections from the pit area that are best explained by an underground cave passage. This is the first direct evidence of an accessible lava tube beneath the Moon’s surface,” he notes.
“We created a model of part of the conduit,” continues Leonardo Carrer, a researcher at the University of Trento: “The most likely explanation for our observations is an empty lava tube.” He adds: “Radar data from the Moon can be used in novel ways to address fundamental questions for science and exploration. It is crucial to continue collecting remote sensing data from the Moon.”
Tough conditions
This work has scientific significance and implications for the development of missions to the Moon, where the environment is hostile to human life. Surface temperatures on the illuminated side of the Moon can reach 127 °C. Temperatures on the unilluminated side can drop to -173 °C.
The existence of a lava tube on the Moon offers a future refuge. Cosmic and solar radiation can be up to 150 times more potent on the lunar surface than on Earth. And there is a constant threat of meteorite impact. These conditions drive the need to find safe sites for building infrastructure that can support sustained exploration. Caves like this one offer a solution to that problem.
