Australian archaeologists have recently discovered signs of life in lava tubes located beneath a basaltic plateau in northwestern Saudi Arabia. This 1.5-kilometer-long lava tube, known as Umm Jirsan, has yielded animal bones, stone tools, and pottery dating back 7,000-10,000 years. The discovery sheds light on the region’s past when it was not always a dry desert but had lakes and lush vegetation that attracted people and animals from Africa.
The lava tube serves as a source of shade and water for farmers and shepherds in the area, despite the harsh desert climate. By studying the artifacts found in the lava tube, researchers aim to piece together the history of human occupation in the region and the interactions between humans and the environment over thousands of years.
Meanwhile, in space exploration news, a US base on the moon is set to be completed by 2030. Additionally, China is also building its own base on the lunar surface. Lava tubes on the moon’s mountains are being considered as potential living spaces for astronauts due to their protection from cosmic radiation and more manageable temperatures.
The discovery of life-sustaining lava tubes on Mars has also sparked interest in exploring other planets with similar geological features for future colonization efforts.
Overall, these discoveries highlight how humans have adapted to harsh environments throughout history and how we continue to explore new frontiers in search of new habitats for ourselves and future generations.
