Research on the impact of extraterrestrial lava tube environments on human survival and countermeasures
Xingyang She, Jiang Wang, Weiyang Xu, Long Xiao
Abstract
Lava tubes, formed by the flow and cooling of volcanic lava, have been discovered on the surfaces of multiple celestial bodies within the solar system. Due to their excellent protection against meteorite impacts, radiation shielding, and stable temperatures, they are considered one of the ideal locations for future extraterrestrial bases. However, achieving long-term human survival in extraterrestrial lava tube environments still faces numerous risks and challenges. The interiors of natural lava tube caves often contain rubble and cracks, requiring pre-treatment work. The vacuum environment is extremely unfavorable for human survival, necessitating sealing and pressurization inside the lava tubes. The caves are in a state of permanent darkness, requiring long-term lighting solutions. While the cave roofs provide shielding from space radiation, they also attenuate radio signals emitted from within. Additionally, long-term survival in enclosed spaces can have negative impacts on both physical and psychological health. Only by comprehensively considering these challenges and adopting appropriate technologies and solutions can humans truly achieve long-term survival and development in extraterrestrial spaces. This paper proposes strategies for utilizing lunar and Martian lava tube caves, focusing on cave treatment and pressurization, lighting and energy supply, communication technologies, and habitation systems, to enable long-term human survival in extraterrestrial environments. • Lava tubes have excellent characteristics for meteorite impact protection, radiation shielding, and temperature stability. • Underground lava tubes are one of the ideal locations for building extraterrestrial bases. • To achieve long-term human survival in extraterrestrial lava tube environments, it is essential to address the potential risks and challenges.