Research:

In this study, we estimate the theoretical upper bounds of Venusian lava tube dimensions by performing parametric numerical analyses under two scenarios of rock-mass strength. Using Finite Element Limit Analysis (FELA) with both lower- and upper-bound estimates of the limit load, we determine the maximum possible widths of lava tubes for given heights and roof thicknesses. This approach provides a range of plausible dimensions for structurally stable Venusian lava tubes. Details are in the recently published Icarus paper.

We identified both stable and less stable cross-section areas along the rim of the Mare Tranquillitatis Pit (MTP). Our analysis shows that MTP slope stability depends on surface topography, the shape of the rock–regolith boundary, and regolith properties. The proposed method and results can guide future site selection for lunar pit exploration, though broader analyses and further validation are needed. The paper was recently published in Acta Astronautica.

This study presents a comprehensive numerical analysis of the stability and collapse geometry of two terrestrial lava tubes (Skull Cave and Valentine Cave) using laser scan data of their interiors and surrounding terrain. Finite element limit analysis was applied to assess the stability with representation of their natural, irregular shapes. The results reveal how natural irregularities strongly influence stability and collapse mechanisms, providing a robust framework for assessing cave stability. The paper was recently published in JGR Planets.

Our latest study analyzes the stability of thousands of lava tube cross-sections with irregular geometry under lunar conditions. Results show that while commonly used unimodal probability functions describe gravity multipliers well, collapse areas in layered roofs follow bi-modal distributions. The study also explores how factors like roof type, internal friction angle, autocorrelation, and rock tensile strength affect structural stability. The paper was recently published in Geoscience Frontiers – the full version is available [here]. A graphical abstract is provided below.

In our work, we continue the previously chosen direction—analyzing the impact of roof layering on the stability and collapse geometry of potential lava tubes under lunar conditions. Here is the full version of the abstract.

We found that lunar lava tubes with layered roofs are less stable compared to those made of solid rock. When parts of these roofs collapse, rock slices can break off, exposing layers of paleoregolith underneath. However, accessing these layers won’t be easy—our analyses suggest large amounts of debris and boulders inside the tubes, which will require special technology to navigate. We also discovered that the strength between the layers in the roof plays an important role in the geometry of these collapses. Check out our full open-access paper for more details.