Plans to put a human colony on the moon took a promising step forward this week as scientists in Italy revealed they've found the first lunar cave. It could be a site for a lunar base, as it offers shelter from'the harsh surface environment' and could support long-term human exploration of the moon. It comes as NASA continues with its ambition to set up its'Artemis Base Camp' in the lunar south region within the decade – but what could this look like? MailOnline spoke to experts to find out how the first settlers could set up camp on our lunar satellite and what sort of facilities it may have. Moondwellers could live and sleep in 3D-printed houses, or eventually play football on laser-cut pitches in their Prada spacesuits.

This incredible 3D-printed home was built by a robot in just 48 hours. Constructed using a special quick-drying mortar, the building is the first of its kind because it can be deconstructed and reassembled at a different location. The one-story home, which has been described as a'milestone' for 3D printing construction, covers 100 square meters (1,075 square feet) and features curved walls, a living area, bedroom, kitchen and bathroom. The Italian architects behind the project said it is just a proof-of-concept for now, and did not disclose how much it cost to build. They added that the house could one day be printed on the moon to house lunar colonies.

As part of the Salone del Mobile design festival, presented by Engineering firm Arup and CLS Architects, the house demonstrates the role 3D printing can play in reducing construction waste and increase efficiency. It also allows for materials to be reused at the end of the building's life, as opposed to ending up in landfill, demonstrating sustainability throughout the building process. A robot from Cybe Construction was used to print the one storey concrete walls, while the roof, windows and doors were completed afterwards. Set apart from other 3D processes the project's uses a robotic manipulator mounted on a portable base.