Date: 6 Jun 2026
Topic: Science
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Humanity is expected to establish a permanent presence on the Moon within the next few decades, and when we do, it is anticipated that our first habitats may be built inside networks of lava tubes connected to the surface. These lava tubes are enormous underground tunnels that were formed by ancient volcanic activity billions of years ago, when molten lava flowed beneath the surface before cooling and leaving hollow passages behind.
There are several reasons why we may choose not to live directly on the lunar surface. The first is radiation. Unlike Earth, the Moon lacks both a substantial atmosphere and a global magnetic field, meaning it offers little protection from cosmic rays and energetic particles emitted by the Sun. Prolonged exposure to this radiation can increase the risk of cancer and other health problems.
The second reason is temperature. In the absence of an atmosphere, the Moon has no effective way to moderate temperature changes. Temperatures in direct sunlight can reach around 127°C, hotter than boiling water, while temperatures in the shade can fall to approximately -173°C.
Earth's atmosphere also protects us from many incoming meteoroids, causing most of them to burn up before reaching the ground. The Moon has no such protection, so even small meteoroids can strike the surface directly. Living underground would provide shielding from these impacts.
Finally, resources may be available underground. Many lunar lava tubes are thought to exist near regions that contain water ice, particularly around the lunar poles. This ice could potentially be used for drinking water, growing food, producing oxygen, and manufacturing rocket fuel.