Is it possible to create an Earthlike atmosphere on the Moon, to make it habitable for humans?

I envision that if the Moon had a breathable atmosphere exactly like that on Earth, humans could eventually colonize the lunar surface, and the only real difference betwen the Earth and the Moon, I’m assuming, would be that gravity would be 1/6th that of what is experienced on Earth.

So, if this were to be attempted, what would need to be done, and how much time do you think it would take to accomplish this? And would this be a good idea to try, as a kind of prelude for attempts to colonize other “Class M” planets in the Universe?

At the very least, I’d like to eventually see some sort of “Palomar Observatory” there, staffed by all kinds of scientists and support workers (and their families) researching and learning about our Universe.

In the meantime, I wouldn’t mind seeing a movie about terraforming the lunar surface, if one hasn’t already seriously addressed this subject.

Your thoughts on this?

September 2, 2008, 5:50 AM EDT