Analyzes of the moon’s surface, particularly areas called glass beads, indicate the existence of vast reserves of water, scientists say.
Researchers believe that small areas called glass beads scattered across the surface of the moon may contain billions of tons of water that astronauts could extract and use in future lunar missions, The Guardian reports.
The discovery is believed to be one of the most important yet for space agencies focused on building bases on the moon, as it means the moon may have a highly accessible source of not only water but also hydrogen and oxygen.
– This is one of the most exciting discoveries we have made. With these findings, the potential for sustainable exploration of the Moon is greater than ever before – says Mahesh Anand, Professor of Planetary Science and Research at the Open University in London.
More than half a century after humans last walked on the moon, NASA and other space agencies are preparing to return to the moon.