One of the mission's major goals is to hunt for water-based ice which, scientists say, could support human habitation on the Moon in future. It could also be used for supplying propellant for spacecraft headed to Mars and other distant destinations. Scientists say the surface area that remains in permanent shadow there is huge and could hold reserves of water ice.

The lander and the rover are carrying five scientific instruments which will help discover the physical characteristics of the surface of the Moon, the atmosphere close to the surface and the tectonic activity to study what goes on below the surface.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-66594520

[–] Agamemnon@lemmy.world 2 points 1 year ago* (last edited 1 year ago) (1 children)

water-based ice

Is that like regular water ice, but extra based? 😂

My point is that this kind of language padding (by the bbc) cracks me up.

(Yes, I know other kinds of solids are called ice - but they are also not '-based', they just are [and also irrelevant in this context])

[–] Ya_Boy_Skinny_Penis@lemmy.world -1 points 1 year ago

Water-based ice, as in, contains impurities but is predominantly water.