The plot of exploiting resources in space is commonly seen in science fiction. In the future, it may not only be a fantasy as the Moon may become a potential target of space mining.

In the early 1960s, scientists had already proposed the possible presence of water ice on the Moon. As the lunar exploration programs of various countries have proceeded, more and more evidences for the presence of water molecules are found. At the end of last year, NASA discovered for the first time that water molecules can be found not only in the shadowed places, but also in the sunlit area of the Moon.

Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) has detected water molecules in Clavius Crater in the Moon's southern hemisphere by measuring the wavelength unique to water molecules. Despite the small amount, it is still a surprising result as the water molecules can survive under direct sunlight and without the protection from an atmosphere.

If the water on the Moon can be successfully exploited, not only can it be used as a supply for astronauts, but the hydrogen and oxygen in it can also be used as fuel for rockets. Therefore, the Moon may become a transit station for space exploration in the future.

More information: https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-s-sofia-discovers-water-on-sunlit-surface-of-moon/