Could ice exist in Lunar lava tubes?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the potential existence of ice within lunar lava tubes, particularly given their expected temperatures of around -20°C and permanent darkness. It concludes that ice is unlikely to form in these tubes due to the absence of a constant supply of water vapor and the need for significantly colder temperatures. The conversation references the migration of water molecules from the lunar equator to the poles and highlights that water on the Moon is primarily adsorbed in the regolith rather than existing as ice. The possibility of colder conditions in lava tubes at the lunar poles is noted, but the overall consensus is that ice cannot be sustained there.

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  • Understanding of lunar geology and temperature dynamics
  • Familiarity with the concept of water vapor migration
  • Knowledge of lunar regolith properties
  • Basic principles of thermodynamics in vacuum environments
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Al_
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Doh!
I did a bit of research and answered my own question. No is the answer.
http://www.quora.com/Does-ice-evaporate-in-a-vacuum
Basically, it would have to have a constant steady input of water vapour (basically a thin atmosphere), or much colder temperatures.
 
My impression was that the water found on the moon was adsorbed in the regolith. On earth, clay retains water molecules at higher temperatures.

The basin at the south pole might have lava tubes. The inside of tubes on the poles should be colder than tubes at the equator.

Honestly I do not know what is on the surface of a lunar lava tube. It must have a surface. Would be nice to have a sample.
 

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