LUnar Geology Orbiter (LUGO)

The LUnar Geology Orbiter (LUGO) is a scientific and exploratory mission to study the thermal evolution of the Moon by characterizing Irregular Mare Patches, as well as lunar lava tubes. This will be accomplished by four payloads, a ground penetrating radar, a hyperspectral camera, LiDAR and narrow angle camera, which will produce images at a greater resolution than currently available. The scientific study will provide confirmation or refutation of current knowledge about the thermal evolution of the Moon. Lunar lava tubes can become potential habitats to provide shelter from the harsh conditions on the Moon, to include dramatic temperature changes, cosmic radiation and micrometeorites.