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Space Technology
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9 min read

What is the purpose of the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter?

On August 21, Roscosmos which is Russia’s space agency, estimated the impact location of Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. On August 22, the LRO Camera and Mission Operations teams sent commands to the LRO spacecraft to capture images of the site. They started this sequence at 2:15 p.m. EDT on August 24 and finished around 6:12 p.m. EDT.

Comparing images taken before and after, the LROC team found a small new crater. Therefore, the most recent image of the area before the impact was from June 2022.

We will go through some of the best, and latest updated data on the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. So, let’s uncover the valuable knowledge that you don’t want to miss out.

The Purposes of Reconnaissance Orbiter:

The LROC has two main jobs:

Checking Landing Sites: LROC takes pictures to make sure it’s safe for spacecraft to land on the Moon, especially near the poles.

Watching the Poles: It also takes pictures of the Moon’s polar areas to see which parts are always dark and which always have sunlight.

Besides these two main tasks, LROC does six other important things:

Maps Polar Mountains: It carefully maps places on the Moon’s poles that always get sunlight.

High-Res Maps: It takes lots of pictures of potential landing spots and other places to create detailed maps.

Resource Check: It uses different colors of light to study what the Moon is made of, especially a mineral called ilmenite.

Big Picture Map: It makes a large map of the Moon with lots of details that are useful for scientists.

Close-Up Pictures: The Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter photos are so amazing. The pictures that it clicked includes the close ups of different parts of the Moon’s surface to understand how they are made.

Impact History: It looks at the Moon’s surface to count how many times it has been hit by small rocks since 1971-1972. This helps us know if it’s safe for future missions.

Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Apollo 11 landing sites:

Some of the most famous photos from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter are of the six Apollo landing sites. This picture shows the Taurus-Littrow valley.

The Detailed Over view of the Moon Images:

The two narrow-angle cameras take very close pictures of the Moon. They have covered each small square in the picture covering an area of about 0.5 meters (1.6 feet). They capture images in a 5-kilometer-wide area.

The wide-angle camera of Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter provides images at a lower level of detail. It includes the each small square covering 100 meters (328 feet). However, it can capture a much wider area, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) across. Besides this, the wide-angle camera also looks at the Moon in seven different colors. It will assists us to find out where important minerals like ilmenite, which contains iron, titanium, and oxygen, are found.

Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter img 1 — Image of the crater Gerasimovich D, located on the far side of the Moon, as seen (a) at optical wavelengths by the LRO wide-angle camera, and (b) at radar wavelengths by Mini-RF on LRO. Due to its sensitivity to rough surfaces, radar is able to highlight a previously unrecognized impact melt flow (indicated by an arrow).

How Lunar Reconnaissance mission will pave a way to further mission?

A NASA mission to map the lunar surface in unprecedented detail and make other observations from orbit. Besides its accomplishments, LRO has photographed all of the Apollo landing sites. It is showing the abandoned lunar modules and the paths the astronauts created during their expeditions. Therefore, LRO’s images may be used to find landing sites for future lunar missions.

Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter img 2 — Oblique LROC NAC view of lunar pits with layered walls found in (a) Mare Tranquillitatis and (b) Mare Ingenii. (c, d) Layered boulders found on the lunar surface within Aristarchus crater. Scale bars in all cases have been estimated from pixel resolution of the NAC images. **NASA/GSFC/Arizona State University, modified by K.H. Joy**

What is the Lunar Reconnaissance mission, and spacecraft design?

Cosmic Ray Telescope for the Effects of Radiation (CRaTER)
Diviner Lunar Radiometer Experiment (DLRE)
Lyman-Alpha Mapping Project (LAMP)
A Lunar Exploration Neutron Detector (LEND)
The Lunar Orbiter Laser Altimeter (LOLA)
Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Camera (LROC)
Mini-RF Miniature Radio Frequency Radar

What is the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter launch date?

According to the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter’s Wikipedia details. LRO was launched on the June 18, 2009, as a joint launch with the Lunar Crater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) mission.

Now, we will be answering some of the frequently asked queries to have a better over view of this mission, and its purposes!

What is the purpose of the Reconnaissance Orbiter?

LRO’s main job was to make a detailed 3D map of the Moon’s surface from a polar orbit. Furthermore, this map helps find safe landing spots, valuable resources, and study radiation. It also tests new tech for future lunar missions, both robotic and human.

Is the Reconnaissance Orbiter still alive?

The LRO is a NASA spacecraft circling the Moon in a unique orbit. Moreover, it is there to make a 3D map of the Moon’s surface, and it’s still doing this job.

What is the current lunar orbiter?

Lunar orbiting spacecraft:

Name: Lunar

Orbiter: Trailblazer

Country/ Organization Type: USA

What did the Reconnaissance Orbiter discover?

We once thought lunar volcanoes stopped erupting a billion years ago. But pictures from the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter (LRO) now showing us something different. The patches of recent basaltic deposits, possibly from eruptions in the past 100 million years.

How far is the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter from the Moon?

LRO lives in a circular orbit, roughly 31 miles (50 kilometers) above the lunar surface, according to NASA.

How many rockets land on moon?

There have been 14 successful moon landings. China did 2 (2013 and 2019), the United States did 5, and the Soviet Union did 7. Besides this, all the US and Soviet landings were in the 1960s and 1970s.

What has the Reconnaissance Orbiter mission sent back to Earth?

The mission is all about looking at the Moon’s poles to find water or ice. The LRO is also checking for water ice in dark craters near the poles. In 2009, another spacecraft flying with LRO found water. They have observed it when a rocket stage was purposely crashed into the Moon’s south pole.

Space Discoveries
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8 min read

You didn’t Know About These Microorganisms in Moon Life!

For a long time, humans have thought about the potential existence of moon life, and they also thought of various creatures.

In this blog, we will provide brief answers to ideas regarding life on the moon. That was held in the 17th, 19th, and 20th centuries. By exploring these concepts, we will also gain valuable insights into scientific theories, and the discoveries by astronomers. Which will further assist us in our evolving understanding of the universe.

What are the Science Fiction Theories in Exploring Moon Life?

As telescopes and other advanced techniques for modeling the moon’s gravity and atmosphere became more

An example of the intelligent insect creatures H.G. Wells described as living inside the moon. As more advanced tools for observing the moon showed its surface to be uninhabited, imagination shifted toward the idea that their might be creatures inside the Moon. The First Men in the Moon, 1901.

powerful. Supporting the notion of the moon as an Earth-like place became increasingly challenging. Despite outlining all the reasons that make life on the moon improbable. A 1915 astronomy textbook acknowledges:

“Even with all this, still life in some weird form may exist on the Moon.”

These ideas about peculiar forms of moon life also found their way into science fiction.

One such science fiction work, is H.G. Wells’ 1901 novel “The First Men in the Moon,”. He introduced a peculiar form of life on the moon’s surface. The story revolves around Mr. Bedford, a London businessman, and Mr. Cavor. He was an inventor who created a substance called cavorite, which negates gravity.

Persuaded by Cavor, Bedford embarks on a journey to the moon using this cavorite. Upon arrival, they encounter the Selenites, insectoid moon natives dwelling within the moon. Both men get capture by the Selenites but manage to escape. Although evidence had suggested a moon landscape, people remained intrigued by the impressive stories of its life that could exist beneath the moon’s surface.

What are the 20th Century’s Perspectives on Life on Moon & Extraterrestrial Competency?

In the 20th century, the Apollo missions brought the possibility of moon travel into reality, which is helping scientists to explore potential forms of life that might exist on the moon.

When training Apollo astronauts for encounters on the moon, Sagan, alongside other scientists.
Science fiction author Isaac Asimov, developed a curriculum to educate them on the possibilities of lunar organic materials. Their work also contributed to shaping procedures for quarantining returning astronauts, considering the potential effects of organic material and microorganisms from the moon.
Despite scientific advancements and the journey towards landing humans on the moon, imaginative ideas about exotic intelligent life on the moon’s surface continued to thrive in popular culture.
Even the long-running Dick Tracy comic strip, known for its tough detective, delved into moon life and the civilizations in the 1960s.

Does Life Exist on the Moon? Let’s Find out Through the Lens of Science!

Dick Tracy’s adventure to the moon revealed an advanced civilization and introduced the character of the Moon Maid, who acted as a liaison between Earth and the moon. While such stories captivated imaginations, the focus gradually shifted back to terrestrial crime-fighting as the real-world moon landing approached. With subsequent space exploration offering a deeper understanding of actual planetary conditions, the notion of intelligent life within our solar system became less tenable.

Previously believed to be inhospitable and lacking life, the Moon is now considered a potential habitat for lifeforms. The upcoming NASA Artemis 3 moon mission, set to launch in late 2025, aims to investigate whether microorganisms, which likely hitchhiked from Earth on previous space flights, might have survived in the extremely cold and permanently shadowed craters of the moon’s south pole. Space.com‘s report suggests that this mission could provide valuable insights into the existence of such life on the Moon.

Can Moon Life Originate from Earth? A Research Made in Artemis 3 Mission:

The research conducted by Saxena and his team was presented during a workshop focused on identifying potential landing sites for the Artemis 3 mission. NASA has already pinpointed 13 candidate regions near the Moon’s south pole. Where the mission’s crew will make the first crewed lunar landing since Apollo 17 in 1972. Scientists speculate that organic molecules, if present on the Moon, could have been transported there through “Earth meteorites.” Additionally, there is a possibility that resilient microbes originating from Earth, capable of enduring harsh conditions, may have traveled to the Moon aboard a lander.

Moon's south pole — Artemis astronauts explore a site near the Moon’s south pole. **Image Credit: NASA**

One intriguing aspect is the lack of strict requirements concerning forward contamination, meaning there will soon be 50 years of history with human objects on the Moon’s surface. Heather Graham, an organic geochemist at NASA Goddard, considers humans the most likely carriers of microbes, given the extensive data on our history of exploration and the potential for impacts from terrestrial sources. This exciting endeavor offers the promise of unraveling new aspects of moon life and deepening our understanding of the Moon’s potential as a habitat.

Moon Life — NASA has identified 13 candidate landing regions for the Artemis 3 mission. **Image Credit: NASA**

What is the Distance of the Moon from our Earth? Let’s Have Some Details Too!

The moon is, on average, about 238,860 miles (382,500 km) away from Earth. Which is roughly equivalent to 30 Earth diameters.

In terms of size, the moon’s diameter is approximately one-fourth that of Earth. And its surface area covers about 1/16th of Earth’s total surface area. As for mass, the moon weighs around 1.2% of Earth’s mass.

The point in the moon’s orbit when it is closest to Earth, we call it perigee. And during this time, the moon is approximately 224,000 miles (360,000 km) away from us.

The Concept of “Supermoon”

This occurrence is often referred to as a “Supermoon” because the moon appears about 14% larger. And approximately 30% brighter in the sky than at its furthest point, known as apogee or a “micro moon.”

How Can You Enhance Your Sky-watching Adventures to Observe the Moon?

For those interested in exploring the moon further, there are opportunities for sky-watching ventures. These include to observe its moon seas, mountainous terrain, and numerous craters. Guides are available for observing the Apollo landing sites, and equipment. It involves telescopes, binoculars, cameras, and lenses. They can enhance the experience of observing and capturing the moon’s beauty during sky-watching adventures.

Space Discoveries
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4 min read

Astrochemistry Sheds Light on Presence of Amino Acids in Space

News:

Astrochemistry involves studying how molecules are formed and behave in space. Scientists began exploring this field in the 1800s when they discovered various elements in the Sun. Following the observation of organic compounds, they found Amino acids in space. In recent years, the study of astrochemistry has gained significant momentum.

Amino Acids in Nebulae, Comet Tails, and Star Nurseries

During the close pass of Halley’s Comet in 1910, scientists detected a molecule called Cyanogen in the comet’s tail. Cyanogen, also known as toxic cyanide, caused some concern among people. In the 1940s and 1950s, radio scientists discovered more simple compounds in space. However, it wasn’t until 1969 that they found a complex molecule called formaldehyde, which is a type of simple carbohydrate essential for life on Earth. This discovery sparked speculation about the presence of organic compounds in space.

Amino Acids in Space, the Essential Precursors

Studies have revealed the existence of numerous complex molecules, such as amino acids, in meteorites. Amino acids play a crucial role in life as they contribute to protein synthesis and are integral components of DNA and RNA. However, detecting amino acids in space is challenging. As a molecule becomes more complex and displays more lines in its spectrum, distinguishing it from other molecules becomes increasingly difficult.

Meteorites are fragments of asteroids or comets that have landed on Earth. Scientists suggest that the chemical similarities found in meteorites indicate the presence of amino acids, which were potentially formed in deep space before the formation of the solar system.

Glycine, First Amino Acid in Space

Nonetheless, advances in high-resolution spectroscopy have improved our ability to identify complex molecules in space. In 2003 scientists detected the first amino acid, glycine, in a nebula. Glycine is the simplest stable amino acid and also acts as a neurotransmitter in the human brain. Subsequently, glycine was found in comet tails and star nurseries, suggesting that amino acids necessary for life might have originated in space.

Tryptophan, New Amino Acid in PMC

In a recent discovery, scientists found another amino acid, tryptophan, in space. Tryptophan is a type of amino acid responsible for protein synthesis. In turn, it is the key factor in ensuring the development or existence of living organisms. The researchers detected tryptophan within the Perseus Molecular Complex (PMC), which consists of star-forming clouds. The location of these clouds was around 1,000 light years away from Earth. By analyzing data obtained from the Spitzer infrared observatory, the scientists could identify 20 spectral lines specific to tryptophan. The team made this significant finding in a relatively warm region of the star-forming area. This indicated a higher chance of the occurrence of certain additional amino acids in warm space clouds.

Which Compounds exist on Mars?

Expeditions and studies have been carried out to look for organic substances, like amino acids, on the surface of the planet. In archaic Martian rocks, Curiosity found complicated organic molecules in 2018 such as thiophene, methanethiol, and dimethyl sulfide.

Are there any traces of Amino acids on the Moon?

A group of NASA-funded researchers has resolved a continuing enigma from the Apollo moon landings, regarding the source of organic stuff discovered in lunar remains that were brought back to Earth. Low quantities of organic matter in the form of amino acids are present in the samples of soil brought back from the Moon by Apollo astronauts. The fundamental components of proteins, which are necessary for existence and are employed to create structures like the skin and hair and control chemical processes, include several amino acids.

Space Missions
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5 min read

Orion Spacecraft Moon Mission | NASA Laser Communications Delivery

The orion spacecraft mission’s laser communications system arrived at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for integration with the Orion spacecraft, which will transport men around the Moon for the first time since the Apollo missions.

Onion Spacecraft Launching Date & Background

NASA launched the Artemis I mission on November 16, 2022, an uncrewed flight test that pushed the human-rated

Laser Communications for Artemis II — The Benefits of Laser Communications: Efficient, Lighter, Secure, and Flexible.
**Credits: NASA / Dave Ryan**

Orion spacecraft further into space than any previous mission.

The next mission, Artemis II will put all of Orion spaceflight systems to the test and pave the way for future lunar surface missions.

The Artemis II mission will also put new and improved technologies to the test, including laser communication capabilities.

The Orion Artemis II Optical Communications System, or O2O, is Orion’s laser communications terminal.

Sending & Receiving of Data Through Laser Communications

Laser communications techniques, such as O2O, enable missions to send and receive more data in a single transmission than traditional radio wave systems, which are currently used by the majority of NASA missions. More information implies more discoveries.

Steve Horowitz, O2O project manager said,

“At 260 megabits per second, O2O is capable of sending down 4K high-definition video from the Moon,”

He added

“In addition to video and pictures, O2O will transmit and receive procedures, pictures, flight plans, and be a link between Orion spacecraft and mission control on Earth.”

After collecting data, O2O will transmit it through laser signals to one of two ground stations in Las Cruces, New Mexico, or Table Mountain, California, both of which were chosen for their low cloud coverage.

The quality of photographs and films sent from Orion via O2O will be determined in part by cloud coverage at ground stations.

Optical Infusion Effect | Orion Spacecraft

The O2O laser terminal is part of the optical infusion effort of the Space Communications and Navigation (SCaN)

NASA's Laser Communications Roadmap — NASA’s Laser Communications Roadmap
**Credits: NASA / Dave Ryan**

program, which is testing laser communications on numerous missions.

A team of engineers from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln Laboratory (MIT-LL) created O2O.

This collaboration has resulted in several laser communications missions, including

Lunar Laser Communications Demonstration (LLCD) in 2013.
Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD) in 2021
Tera-Byte Infrared Delivery (TBIRD) payload in 2022.

Potential Benefits of Laser Communications Through Orion Spacecraft

The SCaN is demonstrating the benefits of laser communications for missions by testing this technology in several space regimes.

The O2O laser terminal underwent multiple stages of environmental testing before being sent to Kennedy to guarantee that the payload can work in the harsh environment of space.
O2O laser communications terminals will allow more data to reach Earth and aid scientists in their efforts to perform advanced investigations. Artemis II’s data will help NASA plan future lunar missions and build a long-term presence on the Moon and, eventually, Mars.

Artemis II Moon Mission — The O2O payload in a Kennedy Space Center cleanroom.
**Credits: NASA / Isaac Watson**

Now, let’s see the capability of Artemis II from different perspectives.

What Artemis II is Supposed to Do?

The approximately 10-day flight will test NASA’s foundational human deep space exploration capabilities. The Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft, for the first time with astronauts and will pave the way for lunar surface missions, including landing the first woman and first person of color on the Moon.

What is the Current Status of Artemis II as NASA’S Orion Spacecraft?

Artemis II stands as the second planned endeavor within NASA’s Artemis program and holds the distinction of being the initial crewed mission employing NASA’s Orion spacecraft.

The intended launch, scheduled for November 2024, will rely on the powerful Space Launch System (SLS).

Space Discoveries
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5 min read

Are Artemis astronauts hopeful for life on the moon?

NASA has recently done some research on the complex structure of the moon and found out that there is microbial life on the moon.

But, how did NASA come to this news? Let’s find out!

As we all know that the moon is a lifeless place in comparison to Earth. Without any evidence of life, glistening clouds, or flowing water.

Microbial Life on the South Pole of the Moon

However, according to a NASA expert, the moon is more complex than it first appears.

Microbial life could survive in hostile circumstances like those on the moon, according to Prabal Saxena, a planetary scientist at NASA’s Goddard Spaceflight Centre.

According to Prabal Saxena,

“There may be potentially habitable niches for such life on some airless bodies in relatively protected areas.”

But first, let’s find out if is there a presence of microbial life in space or anywhere is possible.

Is There Microbial Life in Space?

Microbes can be found wherever humans are present, including our homes, offices, industrial areas, the outdoors, and even in space. Bacteria and fungi inhabit these environments alongside us.

Did Microbial Life on Moon Come Up From Earth?

If these moon bacteria exist, they most certainly came from Earth and rode along with a lunar lander.

Saxena researches potential extraterrestrial life places beyond our solar system, but he has lately collaborated with a team focused on a region closer to Earth: the lunar south pole.

Ice craters and potential microbial life on the moon can be found in the lunar south pole.
Because NASA plans to land its Artemis III astronauts there in 2025, the lunar south pole has received a lot of interest recently.

There are 13 probable landing sites that have been identified by the agency.

Will This Microbial Life on Moon be Helpful for NASA?

The lunar south pole has never been occupied by a human being. However, the Moon Mineralogy Mapper from NASA has revealed that it has ice in its craters, which astronauts may mine for rocket fuel.

Some areas of these craters are perpetually in the dark and in shadow. These lunar niches are therefore never exposed to the sun’s harmful radiation, making them a potential refuge for extremely virulent bacteria.

According to a recent study by Saxena,

“Importantly, recent research on the survivability of microbes exposed to conditions like those on parts of the lunar surface indicate surprising resilience of numerous microorganisms to such conditions,”

It has been said by Leonard David for Inside Outer Space.

A map showing “cold traps” within gloomy lunar craters at the moon’s south and north poles (left and right). Blue dots indicate areas where water ice may exist at or near the surface.

Microbial Life on Earth: Deinococcus radiodurans

For instance, scientists discovered that a bacterium known as Deinococcus radiodurans endured for a year outside the International Space Station. Additionally, tardigrades have endured outside the ISS in the harsh environment of space.

According to Saxena,

“We’re trying to figure out which particular organisms might be best suited for surviving in such regions.”

Even if bacteria don’t now exist on the moon, they most likely will if we begin to move around on its surface. According to Space.com, if Saxena and his team are correct, those bacteria might not only survive in these perpetually covered craters but also flourish and thrive there.

Is There a Microbial Life on Moon?

According to a planetary scientist from NASA, the conditions present on the south pole of the Moon have the potential to support microbial life.

Studies have revealed that specific microorganisms on our planet have the ability to survive in harsh environments. Consequently, it is seemingly fair that this resilient microbial life on Earth might have unintentionally traveled to the Moon aboard a lunar lander and currently reside there.

Can Bacteria Live on the Moon?

During the Apollo 12 mission, the camera that belonged to the Surveyor 3 probe was returned to Earth from the Moon. Upon examining the camera, scientists made an intriguing discovery. Which is the presence of a living bacterium called Streptococcus mitis.

Conclusion:

Above mentioned data shows us that there is microbial life on Moon, and scientists will use it for future research, and findings.

Space Technology
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7 min read

NASA Seeks Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services for Artemis Missions

To investigate the south polar region of the Moon during Artemis missions, NASA is looking for industry proposals for a next-generation LTV (Lunar Terrain Vehicle). This LTV will enable humans to travel further and carry out more science than ever before.

The Artemis crew will use the LTV to explore and sample more of the lunar surface than they could do on foot.

Instead of owning the rover, NASA will hire LTV as a service from the private sector. NASA can take advantage of private innovation.

They offer the best value to American taxpayers while meeting its goals for human spaceflight science and exploration by contracting services from business partners.

NASA is inviting proposals from the industry for the development of an advanced Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV) that will enable astr

What is NASA Lunar Terrain Vehicle?

Astronauts to venture deeper into the Moon’s south polar region and undertake unprecedented scientific endeavors during the Artemis missions. The agency aims to push the boundaries, allowing astronauts to explore new frontiers and expand their scientific capabilities beyond previous limits.

Lara Kearney, manager of NASA’s Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility program at the agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, said,

“We want to leverage industry’s knowledge and innovation, combined with NASA’s history of successfully operating rovers, to make the best possible surface rover for our astronaut crews and scientific researchers.”

The Lunar Terrain Vehicle will operate similarly to a hybrid of an unmanned Mars rover and an Apollo-style lunar rover.

Similar to NASA’s Curiosity and Perseverance Mars rovers, it will support both phases driven by astronauts and phases as an unmanned mobile science exploration platform.

This will make it possible to conduct scientific even when there aren’t any crews on the lunar surface. The LTV will be used by the Artemis astronauts to travel around the lunar surface and transport research gear, increasing the lengths they can travel on each moonwalk.

NASA has specified requirements for businesses interested in creating and demonstrating the LTV under the Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services Request for Proposals, including a strategy that encourages businesses to create an innovative rover for use by NASA and other commercial customers for several years.

Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle

In order to move supplies and scientific payloads between crewed landing sites and enable more science returns, resource exploration, and lunar exploration, engineers will be able to control the LTV remotely.

This will increase the amount of scientific study that can be conducted on the Moon during uncrewed operations, allow researchers to look into potential surface mission landing sites, and help them determine their aims and objectives for each location.

The Lunar Terrain Vehicle will need to have several systems to support both crewed and uncrewed operations to manage the peculiar environment near the lunar South Pole, which includes permanently darkened regions and prolonged periods without sunlight.

Modern communication and navigation systems, semi-autonomous driving, enhanced power management, and environmental protection are some of the more crucial systems.

How Many Lunar Rovers are on the Moon?

A total of three Lunar Roving Vehicles (LRVs) were employed during different Apollo missions on the Moon. Astronauts David Scott and Jim Irwin used one LRV during Apollo 15, while John Young and Charles Duke utilized another LRV during Apollo 16.

Eugene Cernan and Harrison Schmitt, on the other hand, had access to the third LRV during Apollo 17. In each instance, the mission commander took on the role of the driver and sat in the left-hand seat of the respective LRV.

How Much Lunar Rovers Cost?

The $38 million mentioned does not represent the cost of a single unit, but rather the total expenditure for the entire project, which encompasses four units and eight variants designed for testing, development, and training purposes.

To put it into perspective, the renowned Scuderia Ferrari F1 team invested over $400 million in 2020 alone for the development and production of their Formula 1 cars.

Lunar Surface Operations:

Companies are needed to offer end-to-end services as part of the bids, from development and delivery to the lunar surface to execution of operations. Each rover must be capable of accommodating two astronauts in spacesuits, a robotic arm.

Or other devices to aid in science exploration and the harsh conditions at the lunar South Pole. Before employing the LTV with humans, the corporation will be required to successfully test it in a lunar environment.

As of Artemis V in 2029, NASA plans to employ the LTV for crewed activities. The rover will be utilized for uncrewed and commercial tasks before the crew arrives once it landed on the lunar surface.

Space Launch Rocket Mission

The deadline for proposals for the Lunar Terrain Vehicle services contract is July 10, 2023, and the contract will be awarded in November of that same year. Through a draft call for proposals and an earlier request for information, this request for proposals has considered industry feedback.

Through Artemis, NASA will send astronauts to the Moon for scientific research, and commercial gain, and to lay the groundwork for crewed missions to Mars, including the first woman and person of color.

The basis for NASA’s deep space exploration comprises its Space Launch System rocket, Orion spacecraft, Gateway lunar terrain vehicle orbiting base, cutting-edge spacesuits and rovers, and human landing devices.

Space Technology
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8 min read

NASA’s Artemis Base Camp: Innovative Technology and Key Elements for Lunar Exploration

Exploring the moon has always been a topic of fascination for scientists, researchers, and space enthusiasts. NASA’s Artemis program aims to take this fascination to the next level by landing the first woman and next man on the lunar South Pole in 2024. But that’s not all. The program also aims to establish sustainable exploration on the Moon by the decade’s end. To achieve this, NASA has developed the Artemis Base Camp concept. As it includes a modern lunar cabin, a rover, and even a mobile home.

So, get ready as we are about to explore,

What is NASA Base Camp Concept?

NASA’s Artemis Base Camp concept includes a modern lunar cabin, a rover, and a mobile home. It offers astronauts a place to live and work on the Moon for up to two months. The base camp will be located at the lunar South Pole. Hence, it has potential access to ice and other mineral resources. The crew will wear next-generation spacesuits that provide increased mobility. It will also, provide modern communications, and a more robust life support system than Apollo predecessors.

So,

NASA is evaluating proposals for a lunar terrain vehicle (LTV) and a pressurized rover. It could drive autonomously or remotely from Earth to conduct science and exploration activities. The unexplored south-polar region of the Moon offers unique opportunities to unlock scientific secrets about history. Along with the evolution of the Earth and the Moon, and the Artemis program aims to learn how to spend more time on the lunar surface and prepare for future trips to Mars by conducting life science research and mitigating hazards associated with space exploration.

Now, let’s take a closer look on,

What are the key elements of the Artemis Base Camp concept?

Artemis Base Camp is the proposed lunar outpost that NASA plans to establish in the near future. It is a fascinating concept that has captivated the imagination of space enthusiasts around the world. So, one of the most intriguing aspects of this project is the innovative technology. It will facilitate human exploration of the Moon.

Here are the three key elements that are going to play an important role in the Artemis Base Camp concept:

Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV):

The Lunar Terrain Vehicle, or LTV, will be a vital mode of transport for the astronauts stationed at the Base Camp. This unpressurized utility vehicle will be capable of navigating the rugged lunar terrain with ease, allowing astronauts to explore areas that are inaccessible on foot. The LTV will carry two astronauts in their Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Units (xEMU), the advanced spacesuit for lunar exploration. The xEMU suits will provide astronaut protection and mobility, enabling them to work on the lunar surface for extended periods. Moreover, the lunar terrain vehicle (LTV) will arrive after Artemis III in 2025 to build a base camp.

Habitable Mobility Platform:

Another key element of the Artemis Base Camp concept is NASA’s mobile lunar habitat concept, called the habitable mobility platform, which has a pressurized interior with life support systems. This allows astronauts to travel without wearing spacesuits, making it more comfortable and time-efficient. Unlike unpressurized rovers, which limit mission duration based on how long oxygen lasts in spacesuits, the habitable mobility platform enables longer and farther crewed exploration of the lunar surface. The Habitable Mobility Platform will enable astronauts to explore the Moon’s surface in greater detail and with greater flexibility than ever before. Experts can’t say much about the RV’s appearance since its final design has yet to be finalized. But it’s meant to accommodate many astronauts for up to two weeks of living and working.

Foundation Surface Habitat:

The Foundation Surface Habitat is a non-mobile structure designed for short stays of a few days by up to four astronauts. This pressurized habitat will provide astronauts with a safe and comfortable living space during their time at the Base Camp. It will be equipped with integrated life support systems to ensure the astronauts have everything they need to survive and thrive on the lunar surface.
Now, you might be thinking,

What is the purpose of the Base Camp?

The objective of the base camp is to establish a sustainable human presence on the moon by the end of the decade. Unlike the Apollo missions, the current effort seeks to lay the foundation for long-term exploration and utilization of the moon’s resources.

NASA’s Steve Creech highlights this shift in priorities by noting that while the Apollo missions were impressive, their main goal was to prove that the United States could achieve them. In contrast, the current lunar initiative aims to build upon the knowledge gained from past missions. Hence, they use it as a stepping stone for future endeavors. Here are some objectives of the Base Camp:

Artemis Base Camp is made to use the Moon’s resources in a sustainable way. In-Situ Resource Utilisation (ISRU) will provide essential resources for the camp.

The base camp will also establish sustainable power during the lunar day/night cycles.

Design and build machinery and electronics that can operate in the extreme lunar environment, including super-chilly permanently shadowed craters.

It also mitigates the harmful effects of lunar dust on equipment and human health.

The base camp will carry out surface excavation, manufacturing, and construction duties.

The crew will use advanced rovers, drills, and other equipment to explore and navigate the lunar surface and subsurface.

Let’s conclude this debate,

Crux of the discussion!

NASA’s Artemis Base Camp concept represents an exciting new era of lunar exploration, with the potential to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon. The innovative technology and key elements of the Base Camp will enable astronauts to explore the Moon’s surface in greater detail. Along with greater flexibility than ever before. By exploring and navigating the lunar surface and subsurface, the Artemis program aims to prepare for future trips to Mars and unlock scientific secrets about the history and evolution of Earth and the Moon. As we look to the future, it is clear that the Artemis program represents a critical step in humanity’s journey toward deeper space exploration. We can’t wait to see what discoveries and achievements lie ahead.

Published by: Sky Headlines

Space Technology
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Axiom Space unveils advanced AxEMU spacesuits for moon exploration

NASA and a private company called Axiom Space showed off new spacesuits that will be used by astronauts when they go to the Moon. These suits are Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Units or AxEMUs. They’re better than Apollo and ISS suits. The new suits were only partially shown so the design would not be copied. An extra layer of fabric only for display is covering the new Axiom Space xEMU spacesuits.

The primary reason for using this cover layer is to hide the specific details and design of the spacesuit since they are proprietary, meaning they are owned by Axiom Space and not meant to be revealed to the public or competitors. The press release also explains that the spacesuit will be white, as it needs to reflect heat and protect astronauts from the extremely high temperatures on the Moon.

What is the difference between this suit and the new AxEMU spacesuit?

Compared to the Apollo suits, the new xEMU spacesuits are one-piece suits with a “hatch” on the back, which is a back entry design that allows astronauts to step into the suit from behind. The suit has a hard torso that provides the core structure, arms and legs, and various mobility joints. The arms and legs can be changed out for custom fitting, which provides a better fit for the individual astronaut.

Additionally, the AxEMU spacesuit has a portable life support system on the back that provides life support systems for heat and cooling, air to breathe, and even food and water. The helmet bubble is mounted to the hard upper torso, and on top is the visor assembly that includes lights to allow astronauts to see in shadowed areas or during the lunar night. The new gloves and boots are designed to be more flexible and durable, allowing astronauts to work longer hours on the lunar surface.

However, we got to see that they are more functional and flexible than older suits,

How to get inside the xEMU spacesuits?

The suit is a one-piece suit with a hard torso that provides the core structure of the suit and arms and legs with various mobility joints. It can change out the legs and arms for fitting. To get into the suit, the astronaut would first approach the suit from the back, where there is a hatch or opening. They would then open the hatch and step into the suit one leg at a time. And pull it up to their waist. They would then slip their arms into the arm openings, which have a variety of mobility joints to allow for flexibility.

spacesuits for moon exploration — **Credit: Axiom Space**

Once the arms are in, the astronaut would put on the helmet. The helmet is then attached to the hard upper torso of the xEMU spacesuits. The visor assembly is located on top of the helmet bubble. The visor assembly includes lights that help astronauts see in shadowed areas or during the lunar night. The backpack is located on the rear of the spacesuit. The backpack contains life support systems that provide cooling and heat, air to breathe, and even food and water to the astronaut. Once the backpack is attached, the astronaut is ready to go outside and perform a spacewalk or extravehicular activity (EVA).

Now, you might be wondering,

Who demonstrates the suit by putting the suit on?

Axiom Space engineer Jim Stein wore a prototype of the new suit and demonstrated it by walking around, doing squats, lunges, kneeling, and more. As well as displaying how much flexibility the arms of the new suit provided.

NASA’s Extravehicular Activity and Human Surface Mobility Program office are based at the Johnson Space Center (JSC). The program office conducted ten years of research on spacesuits for lunar activities, including moonwalks. He shared research findings with Axiom, the designers of the xEMU spacesuits. Axiom used this information to develop the new AxEMU spacesuit. The next astronauts landing on the Moon will wear this new spacesuit.

advanced AxEMU spacesuits — ***A view of the back of the new AxEMU suit. To the right is Russell Ralston, deputy program manager for Extravehicular Activity at Axiom Space. Via NASA TV.***

Let’s find out,

What are the experts’ remarks on this?

Lara Kearney is the program manager. She explains that developing a spacesuit for the Artemis missions was challenging due to the Moon’s harsh environment. In particular, the south pole’s temperature requirements presented a significant challenge. The team aimed to make the new suit more mobile than the Apollo suits to improve astronaut movement. However, they also leveraged their past knowledge and experience to guide Axiom Space in developing the new spacesuit.

NASA’s Johnson Space Center Director Vanessa Wyche says NASA has not created a new astronaut spacesuit in the last 40 years. The last time NASA created new spacesuits was for the Space Shuttle program. Therefore, the collaboration with Axiom Space has created a new spacesuit, the AxEMU, which Wyche describes as being more functional. She adds that NASA will collaborate with Axiom Space to make the new spacesuit safe for astronauts.