Could ice exist in Lunar lava tubes?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the potential for water molecules to exist in lunar lava tubes due to their expected temperature and darkness. However, further research shows that this is unlikely due to the lack of a constant water source or extremely cold temperatures. The possibility of water being adsorbed in the lunar regolith is also mentioned. The conversation also touches upon the different conditions of lava tubes at the poles and equator, and the unknown composition of the surface of a lunar lava tube.
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  • #2
Doh!
I did a bit of research and answered my own question. No is the answer.
http://www.quora.com/Does-ice-evaporate-in-a-vacuum
Basically, it would have to have a constant steady input of water vapour (basically a thin atmosphere), or much colder temperatures.
 
  • #3
My impression was that the water found on the moon was adsorbed in the regolith. On earth, clay retains water molecules at higher temperatures.

The basin at the south pole might have lava tubes. The inside of tubes on the poles should be colder than tubes at the equator.

Honestly I do not know what is on the surface of a lunar lava tube. It must have a surface. Would be nice to have a sample.
 

Related to Could ice exist in Lunar lava tubes?

1. How could ice exist in Lunar lava tubes?

It is believed that water ice could have been deposited in Lunar lava tubes through a process called cold trapping. During the early history of the Moon, water ice could have been brought to the surface through comet impacts. This water could have then been trapped in the cold, dark environment of the lava tubes, preventing it from sublimating (turning from solid to gas) and allowing it to remain in a frozen state.

2. What evidence supports the existence of ice in Lunar lava tubes?

Recent studies using data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter's Diviner instrument have shown the presence of cold traps in Lunar lava tubes, indicating the potential for water ice to exist. Additionally, the presence of hydrogen in the Moon's polar regions, where many lava tubes are located, also suggests the possibility of water ice deposits.

3. How thick could the ice deposits be in Lunar lava tubes?

The thickness of ice deposits in Lunar lava tubes is not yet fully known. However, it is estimated that the deposits could range from a few centimeters to several meters in thickness. This is based on data from the Diviner instrument, which has detected areas of high hydrogen abundance in the Moon's polar regions, where the lava tubes are located.

4. Could the ice deposits in Lunar lava tubes be used as a water source for future lunar missions?

Yes, the ice deposits in Lunar lava tubes could potentially serve as a valuable resource for future lunar missions. Water ice could be extracted and purified for drinking water, or it could be broken down into its components, hydrogen and oxygen, for use as rocket fuel. This could greatly reduce the cost and difficulty of launching from the Moon's surface.

5. Are there any plans to explore Lunar lava tubes and study the potential ice deposits?

Yes, there have been proposals for future lunar missions that involve exploring and studying Lunar lava tubes. One such mission is the Lunar Underground Explorer (LUPE) concept, which aims to send a rover equipped with instruments to explore the interior of a lava tube and search for evidence of ice deposits. Other potential missions could involve drilling into the lava tubes to directly sample and analyze the ice deposits.

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