NASA has announced a new update to its long-term deep space exploration framework, focusing on lunar exploration under the Artemis program. This update, released on December 13, 2024, includes technical documents that refine the 'Lunar to Mars Architecture,' a roadmap for sustained lunar exploration in preparation for future crewed missions to Mars.
A significant development includes NASA's decision to utilize nuclear fission as the primary energy source for sustaining crews on the Martian surface. Fission energy is unaffected by day-night cycles or potential dust storms on Mars, according to the agency.
The updated roadmap also emphasizes the need for a cargo landing module on the lunar surface and an initial habitat on the Moon, which will extend the reach and duration of exploration missions.
Jim Free, NASA's associate administrator, stated, 'We are taking a methodical approach to outline the decisions we need to make, understand resource and technology trade-offs, and ensure we listen to stakeholder feedback.'
This 'Lunar to Mars Architecture' incorporates input from U.S. industry, academia, international partners, and NASA's workforce.
Under the Artemis program, NASA aims for long-term scientific exploration of the Moon while laying the groundwork for future crewed expeditions to Mars. However, the agency recently announced a delay in its goal to return astronauts to the Moon due to technical issues, pushing the timeline for lunar landings to 2027.
Bill Nelson, NASA's outgoing administrator, reported that the Artemis III mission, which will mark the first crewed lunar landing in over 50 years, has been postponed from 2026 to mid-2027. Additionally, the Artemis II mission, which is set to orbit the Moon with a crewed spacecraft, has been delayed from 2025 to April 2026.