Lunar Water Reserves Insufficient for Large Cities, New Study Suggests
Scientists have determined that the estimated water available on the moon is insufficient to sustain large cities long-term. A study published in *Frontiers in Space Technologies* suggests that while smaller settlements might be feasible, a city of 1 million people…
Denver, CO, September 17, 2026 — A recent scientific study indicates that the estimated water reserves on the Moon may not be sufficient to support large-scale, long-term human settlements, such as cities. The findings, published in the journal Frontiers in Space Technologies, cast doubt on ambitious proposals for establishing significant lunar metropolises in the coming decades.
Researchers have analyzed the available water resources on the Moon and concluded that a city populated by approximately 1 million people would exhaust current reserves in under two and a half years, assuming no advanced recycling systems are in place. This timeline highlights the significant challenges associated with maintaining a large human presence on the lunar surface.
The study, however, does suggest that smaller settlements or bases might be feasible, provided their water demands are managed carefully. The critical factor identified for the sustainability of larger populations is the necessity for highly efficient water recycling technologies. Without such systems, the estimated water quantities fall short of supporting a city’s long-term needs.
The publication of these findings raises questions for space agencies and private companies that have put forth plans for extensive lunar development. The assessment of resource availability is a key consideration for the viability and practicality of such endeavors. The specific amount of estimated water available was not detailed in the summary provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Amarachi Orie on www.denver7.com, see more information here.
