NASA plans robotic probe to explore mysterious pit on the Moon's far side

NASA, in partnership with the Planetary Science Institute, is designing the Geophysical Instruments for Marius Lunar Pit Investigation (GIMLI) mission to explore the Marius Hills Pit on the Moon’s Earth-facing side. The robotic lander will carry radar to image deeper layers, seismic sensors to track vibrations, and gravity meters to detect hidden voids, while cameras will document the pit’s walls. Scientists aim to confirm if the depression is the remnant of a large, ancient lava tube or the result of a meteor impact breaching a subsurface channel.

Discovering extensive underground cavities could reshape understanding of lunar volcanism and provide natural radiation shielding for future bases. The project also involves Honeybee Robotics, a Blue Origin affiliate, to develop compatible hardware for NASA’s commercial lunar lander program.