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In a first step towards uncovering the Moon’s subterranean secrets, in 2019 we asked for your ideas to detect, map and explore lunar caves. Five ideas were selected to be studied in more detail, each addressing different phases of a potential mission.
This mission concept investigated exploring and characterising the entrance and initial part of lunar lava tubes using a compact, tightly integrated spherical robotic device, with a complementary payload set and autonomous capabilities. It specifically addressed the identification and characterisation of potential resources for future ESA exploration missions, the local environment of the subsurface and its geological and compositional structure. The sphere would house laser scanners, cameras and supporting equipment, and would be lowered into the skylight to explore the entrance, associated caverns and pipes. Lidar systems will produce 3D models of the environment; this will be the primary exploration toolset within the sphere.