An international team of scientists have confirmed the existence of a large underground tunnel beneath the Moon’s Mare Tranquillitatis region, which could serve as a potential future habitat for astronauts. This discovery was made using data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter’s Miniature Radio-Frequency (Mini-RF) instrument. The tunnel, thought to be formed by ancient volcanic activity, presents a viable option for shelter from harsh lunar temperatures and radiation. The cave's steady temperature of 63 °F (17 °C) and protection from micrometeorites and solar radiation make it an ideal location for a lunar base. NASA aims to return astronauts to the Moon in the Artemis III mission scheduled for September 2026.

How can newly discovered lunar tunnels benefit future space missions?n

Lunar tunnels can provide a stable and safe environment for future space missions by offering protection from extreme temperatures, radiation, and micrometeorite impacts. This could significantly aid in establishing a permanent human presence on the Moon.

The Artemis program is NASA's ambitious plan to return humans to the Moon and eventually pave the way to Mars. Artemis III, part of this mission, aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface by September 2026, advancing scientific discovery, and bolstering international partnerships and commercial space industries.