AI Model ESSA Reveals Hidden Lunar Cave Entrances for Future Missions

A British scientist has applied a deep learning artificial intelligence model, known as ESSA, to extensive imagery of the Moon's surface, uncovering potential cave entrances previously undetected by conventional observation methods.These formations, appearing as pits and skylights in orbital images, could serve as natural shelters for future lunar missions.

The identified locations may harbour water ice, a critical resource for sustaining human life and supporting fuel production for extended exploration.By leveraging AI technology, researchers are able to accelerate the identification of sites suitable for establishing human bases on the Moon, offering new possibilities for long-term habitation and scientific study.

Planner: Harrison Day

17 hours ago

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AI Uncovers Subsurface Entrances on the Moon

An illustration of potential lunar cave entrances identified by the AI model ESSA.

The ESSA-AI model has identified two specific potential entrances on the Moon.The first is located in the South Marius Hills region, while the second lies near the lunar North Pole.Both sites are believed to connect to subsurface lava tubes, geological formations that could provide natural protection against cosmic radiation and micrometeorite strikes.

These findings are significant because such lava tubes may serve as safer environments for human explorers, reducing exposure to hazards that would otherwise pose serious risks on the lunar surface.The discovery of these two entrances represents an important step in planning secure and sustainable lunar habitats for future missions.

While the initial scan using ESSA covered only around 0.23% of the Moon's maria, the results suggest that many more potential cave entrances may exist across the lunar surface.Experts emphasise that each new entrance could offer valuable locations for habitat construction, providing natural shielding from environmental hazards.

The presence of water ice within these formations could support life support systems and fuel production, crucial elements for extended lunar stays.These early discoveries also highlight the utility of AI in guiding exploration priorities and informing strategic decisions about where to establish permanent or semi-permanent bases on the Moon.

Looking ahead, scientists intend to extend AI-assisted scanning to larger portions of the lunar surface, seeking additional cave entrances that could support human activity.This expanded research will help mission planners identify the most suitable locations for establishing lunar bases, optimising both safety and resource availability.

By mapping subsurface features with greater precision, researchers hope to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the Moon's geology and potential resources.These efforts are expected to significantly contribute to the feasibility of long-term human exploration and paving the way for sustainable and strategically planned lunar settlements.