NASA begins construction of permanent base at Moon’s south pole
Photo: illustrative image of a Moon base (NASA)
NASA is beginning construction of a large-scale base at the Moon’s south pole. The agency has already ordered its first landing modules, rovers, and drones as part of preparations for future astronaut missions, according to the Associated Press (AP).
NASA has signed contracts worth hundreds of millions of dollars, with four American companies set to develop equipment capable of operating in harsh lunar conditions. For example, Blue Origin will build two lunar landing modules designed to deliver specialized rovers to the surface. The rovers themselves are being developed by Astrolab and Lunar Outpost.
The first drones will be sent to the Moon by Firefly Aerospace, which proved its reliability last year. All equipment is expected to arrive before humans. NASA plans the first astronaut landing for 2028.
Mission schedule and astronaut training
The Artemis program is moving forward according to a clear timeline. Preparations for Artemis III will begin next year. Astronauts will train to dock the Orion spacecraft capsule in Earth orbit using landing systems developed by Blue Origin and SpaceX.
Key milestones of lunar exploration:
Mid-2027 — launch of the Artemis III mission.
2028 — landing of two astronauts on the lunar surface.
2029 — beginning construction of a permanent energy system.
2030s — development of residential modules for long-term stays.
Lunar economy and a launchpad for Mars
The project’s main goal is to stimulate a lunar economy. NASA plans to conduct unique scientific research, while the Moon will serve as a testing ground before future missions to Mars.
“For those waiting patiently, the grand return is close at hand, and we will not slow down. We are really just getting started,” NASA said.
What else is known about Artemis
Ukraine could potentially join the historic lunar base project. NASA is reportedly interested in capabilities and engines developed by Yuzhnoye Design Office, although Ukraine’s participation comes with certain challenges.
It was also previously reported that the State Space Agency of Ukraine signed agreements within the program on principles of cooperation in the peaceful exploration and use of the Moon, Mars, comets, and asteroids, joining other participating space agencies.
