What are lava tubes?

Lava tubes (also known as pyroducts) are volcanic features with tunnel-like structures that form when lava supply ceases, allowing the molten material to drain downslope, leaving partially empty conduits behind. An important characteristic of lava tubes is their tendency to undergo roof collapse, producing "collapse pits" or "skylights." These skylights help in identifying lava tubes' presence but also indicate structural instability. Lava tubes are common on Earth and have been identified on the Moon and Mars, where they are likely widespread. Of particular interest is their potential as natural shelters; the large sizes and tunnel-like structure of lava tubes could protect planetary mission habitats from surface hazards like extreme temperature fluctuations, radiation, and micrometeoroids. This makes lunar lava tubes especially promising for the future of human exploration on the Moon, Mars, and beyond.

Our Aim

The project aims to quantify the potential shape and size of lunar lava tubes through a fully three-dimensional stability analysis.