NASA-funded scientists have discovered shaded locations within pits on the Moon that always hover around a comfortable 63 F (about 17 C) Temperatures.
Credit: NASA/Goddard/Arizona State University
The research carried out using data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) spacecraft and computer modeling.
Credit: NASA
The pits, and caves to which they may lead, would make thermally stable sites for lunar exploration compared to areas at the Moon's surface.
Credit: NASA
Which heat up to 260 F (about 127 C) during the day and cool to minus 280 F (about minus 173 C) at night.
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Lunar exploration is part of NASA's goal to explore and understand the unknown in space, to inspire and benefit humanity.
Credit: NASA
Pits were first discovered on the Moon in 2009, and since then, scientists have wondered if they led to caves that could be explored or used as shelters.
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The pits or caves would also offer some protection from cosmic rays, solar radiation and micrometeorites.
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Knowing that they create a stable thermal environment helps us paint a picture of these unique lunar features and the prospect of one day exploring them.
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Two of the most prominent pits have visible overhangs that clearly lead to caves or voids, and there is strong evidence that another's overhang may also lead to a large cave.
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"Humans evolved living in caves, and to caves we might return when we live on the Moon," said David Paige, who leads the Diviner Lunar Radiometer Experiment abord LRO.
Credit: NASA