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Moon lava tubes may become the safest homes for future astronauts

Science
Published on 7 May 2026
Moon lava tubes may become the safest homes for future astronauts

They could shield astronauts from radiation and cold

Scientists are turning to lunar lava tubes as promising shelter sites for future astronauts. These underground tunnels can offer strong protection from harmful radiation and extreme temperature swings. Researchers also suspect the tubes may hold valuable resources such as water ice, which could support long-term missions. With underground habitats potentially more practical than surface bases, study efforts are accelerating.

  • Lunar lava tubes provide natural shielding from radiation
  • They may help astronauts handle extreme temperature swings
  • Water ice could be present inside these underground structures
  • Underground habitats are seen as more practical than surface bases
Read the full story at The Economic Times

This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on The Economic TimesThe Economic Times

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