NASA Accelerates Moon Base Plans with New Contract Awards

NASA officials took a significant step toward establishing a human presence on the Moon on Tuesday, announcing contract awards for the initial elements of a lunar base. The space agency revealed that two companies, Astrolab and Lunar Outpost, will build rovers designed to provide mobility for astronauts on the Moon's surface. The contract awards are part of NASA's ambitious plan to return humans to the Moon, with the long-term goal of establishing a sustainable presence on the lunar surface.

NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman emphasized the agency's commitment to maintaining momentum around the Moon Base initiative, which was unveiled two months ago. "For those waiting patiently, the grand return is close at hand, and we will not slow down," he said. The two rovers, which will be capable of traveling 200 km, will be built to operate autonomously with guidance from operators on Earth, as well as be driven by astronauts.

Astrolab will receive $219 million to develop its "CLV-1" rover, while Lunar Outpost will receive $220 million for its "Pegasus" rover. These contracts build on initial agreements awarded two years ago. Carlos Garcia-Galan, the manager for the lunar base, noted that the rovers are expected to be ready for delivery to the Moon in 2028.

With a range of 200 km, the rovers will enable astronauts to explore a significant portion of the lunar surface. The development of these rovers marks a crucial step toward establishing a human presence on the Moon. NASA's Artemis program aims to return humans to the lunar surface by 2025 and establish a sustainable presence on the Moon by 2028.