NASA scientists confirmed that significant water ice deposits exist in permanently shadowed craters near the Moon’s south pole, potentially providing a crucial resource for future lunar habitation.

Data from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter indicates at least 600 million metric tons of water ice are trapped in craters that haven’t seen sunlight in billions of years.

“This discovery fundamentally changes our timeline for establishing a permanent lunar presence,” said NASA Administrator Bill Nelson. “Water means fuel, drinking water, and oxygen for breathing.”