Could a Moon crater be a future astronaut base?

A special new project is looking at whether a crater found on the Moon could become shelter for a future astronaut base.

By 2032, Nasa is planning to have built a permanent base on the Moon.

Research shows there could be caves and lava tubes created by volcanic activity from billions of years ago hidden under the Moon's surface.

The project will look further at the Marius Hills Pit - to see whether it could protect astronauts from things like radiation and extreme temperatures on the Moon's surface.

The Marius Hills Pit (MHP) is about 34-45 metres deep and between 65 and 90 metres wide.

Researchers will be focusing on studying MHP to see if it could serve as an entrance to a network of underground caves and lava tubes.

Lava tubes are like underground passageways created when lava flows deep underground.

Scientists would aim to use their knowledge of the formation of lava tubes on Earth to help them understand more about the Moon's volcanic activity from billions of years ago.

A rover carrying lots of scientific instruments will be used to take measurements and photographs in and around MHP.

Sound waves will be used to produce a map of what lies beneath the surface, as well as radar and gravity measurements.

They'll also look at the kind of hazards equipment on the surface might face, such as tiny meteoroids.

The research will help shape where and how a shelter is built for astronauts to live on the Moon in the future.

Nicky Fox, Science Mission Directorate at Nasa Headquarters in Washington said:

"NASA Science is building the ultimate interplanetary survival guide to... provide our future astronaut crews with the vital information, resources, and safety precautions needed ahead of time to survive the night on the Moon.

She added the research will "directly help NASA minimize risks to our astronauts... as we set up humanity's first lunar outpost in preparation for sending the first astronauts to Mars."