Lunar rover concept for the Artemis program -NASA
Nov. 2 () –
NASA plans to take out hiring early 2023 a mobility service for its future astronauts on the lunar surface.
As astronauts explore the South Pole region of the Moon during the Artemis missions, they will be able to go further and do more science than ever before thanks to a new Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV).
Instead of owning the vehicle, NASA plans to contract it out as a service to industry, which it is already canvassing.
“This draft is one of the first important steps in this exciting project that will allow astronauts to explore farther than ever on the Moon,” he says. it’s a statement Lara Kearney, program manager for Extravehicular Activity (EVA) and Human Surface Mobility (HSM) at NASA’s Johnson Space Center. “Getting industry feedback is crucial as we move forward with issuing a final request for proposal.”
This iconic style of crewable rover that debuted during the Apollo missions is a cornerstone in NASA’s plans to develop a long-term presence on the lunar surface. While those vehicles significantly expanded lunar exploration capabilities, the new Artemis LTV will feature multiple upgrades and advanced technology.
Because the Artemis missions will target the lunar South Pole area, the new LTV must be able to withstand and operate in unique and cold lighting conditions. Artemis LTV is also expected to cover a range of hundreds of kilometers per year, which will allow access to various places that will facilitate scientific discoveries, prospecting for resources and exploration. It will also be able to function remotely and it will be available for other commercial uses when not conducting NASA research and operations.
