As they explore deeper into the Moon, the two men encounter the Selenites—a strange, intelligent lunar race—and attempt cautious communication with these biologically and socially alien beings. Cultural misunderstanding leads to conflict, and while Bedford manages to escape, Cavor is captured. Back on Earth, Bedford later receives astonishing wireless messages from Cavor, revealing his survival and insights into lunar society. Cavor describes to the Grand Lunar the nature of human civilization—its science, wars, and violent tendencies—sparking philosophical concern. The transmissions cease with his final message, leaving Earth forever severed from the Moon and its mysteries.
