The Challenges of Finding a Source of Water on the Moon

1min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

The water is considered as the most critical commodity perhaps. If we were to actually stay at the lunar surface, for example, you would need water for a variety of processes. So in that context, if you can actually find a source of water where you are going, you then reduce the cost of carrying the mass with you right from the beginning.

More than half a century after humans last walked on the moon, researchers have made a discovery that makes lunar living an increasing possibility. The moon’s surface is littered with tiny glass beads containing water, which could be extracted and used by visiting astronauts. Ian Sample speaks to Professor Mahesh Anand, part of the team that made the discovery, about where these beads come from and what they mean for future moon missions. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod