'200-foot caves': NASA makes shocking find beneath Moon's surface that could be future human home
Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Credit: NASA/Goddard/Arizona State University
Cave Discovery
NASA’s LRO data revealed a cave stretching over 200 feet beneath a pit in Mare Tranquillitatis.
Credit: NASA
Hidden Tunnels
Suspected for decades, these subsurface caves may extend for miles, shielded from harsh radiation.
Credit: NASA
Lava Tubes
Like Earth's lava tubes, these lunar caves likely formed from ancient volcanic flows beneath cooled crusts.
Representative pic
Prime Location
The cave lies 230 miles northeast of the Apollo 11 landing site, where humans first stepped on the Moon.
Astronaut Havens
LRO project scientist Noah Petro suggests these caves could support future human lunar activities.
Solar Shield
Lava tubes offer protection from solar radiation, making them potential sites for lunar habitats.
Ancient Secrets
These caves hold clues to the Moon’s volcanic history and the early solar system’s evolution.
Mini-RF Role
NASA’s Mini-RF radar provided key insights into the cave’s depth and potential extent.
Credit: NASA
Future Missions
LRO’s findings enhance lunar exploration goals, paving the way for sustainable human presence on the Moon.