Before Space: How NASA Astronauts Perfected Moonwalking in Idaho!

Recently, an article from SciTechDaily explored how NASA’s Apollo astronauts trained in the unique landscape of Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve in southern Idaho. This training was crucial for preparing them for the Moon’s rocky surface.

Before landing on the Moon, astronauts honed their skills on a terrain shaped by volcanic activity, creating conditions quite similar to those they would face later.

A Volcanic Paradise for Astronaut Training

The choice of Craters of the Moon was deliberate. The monument features lava tubes, basalt flows, and cinder cones, making it an ideal setting for training. Astronauts could practice essential skills in a landscape that mirrored the Moon’s environment.

In 1969, astronauts like Eugene Cernan and Joe Engle conducted field training here with NASA geologist Ted Foss. The volcanic history of Idaho, while more recent (dating back only 15,000 to 2,100 years), provided a rugged and accessible environment. These similar terrains helped astronauts practice their geological observation skills.

Though the craters on the Moon were formed by meteoroid impacts and the ones at Craters of the Moon by volcanic eruptions, the overall resemblance offered vital preparation for the astronauts.

Satellite Views of a Unique Landscape

Recent satellite images from the Operational Land Imager (OLI) onboard Landsat 8 and Landsat 9 have showcased the striking seasonal changes at Craters of the Moon. For instance, a summer image from July 2024 reveals the stark, black lava landscape, while a winter photo from January 2025 shows it blanketed in snow, highlighting features like the cinder cones.

Although some smaller features like pahoehoe lava flows cannot be captured from space, they are crucial for understanding both Earth and potential volcanic activity on other planets.

Resilience Amidst Volcanic Ash

Life thrives in this harsh environment. Initially, lichens colonized the new lava, followed by complex plants as soils developed. Notably, kipukas—or islands of older soil—offer refuge for some of Idaho’s oldest juniper trees.

These kipukas vary in size and highlight the area’s ecological diversity, which is especially impressive given the long winters at an elevation of around 6,000 feet (1,800 meters). This resilience can provide insights into how life might exist on Mars and other planets.

Craters of the Moon: A Gateway for Future Mars Missions

The training done at Craters of the Moon is not just historical; it holds potential for future missions to Mars. Research has shown that the lava tubes here are home to diverse microbial communities. These tubes could be similar to those on Mars, which may shelter life from harsh conditions.

By studying the microbial ecosystems on Earth, scientists gain valuable knowledge that can help in their search for extraterrestrial life.

A Link Between Earth and Space

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve is more than a natural wonder; it connects our planet to the universe. From training astronauts for lunar landings to paving the way for Mars exploration, its significance is deeply rooted in humanity’s quest to explore beyond Earth.

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