Building A Way Out

Researchers are now arguing that there's enough water ice in the lunar polar regions to support a human move into the Solar System. Using data from various spacecraft, principally from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter, they say there's enough water on the Moon to form part of the basis of a permanent, prosperous lunar society.

The ice exists in places that are never exposed to solar radiation. That means on the floors of deep craters. In permanent shadow, water ice could exist for billions of years. There is evidence for water ice around both lunar poles. One favorite area for those looking to site future bases and settlements is Shackleton crater, near the south pole. Shackleton is 12.5 miles across, but 3 miles deep. Evidence suggests there is water ice on Shackleton's floor, and we know some of the peaks in the crater's rim are in permanent sunlight. Combine substantial water resources with an inexhaustible power supply, and the possibilities are fascinating.

Water is important not simply as water. It can be split into its components of hydrogen and oxygen, and each would be useful. Recombined correctly, hydrogen and oxygen also makes an excellent rocket fuel that could power probes to planets and asteroids.