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In a monumental step forward for space exploration, NASA has pinpointed nine prospective landing areas near the Moon's South Pole for the impending Artemis III mission. This event is set to be the first crewed lunar expedition in over 50 years. As part of NASA's extensive preparation for Artemis III, these landing regions will undergo meticulous scientific and engineering examinations to ensure a safe and scientifically valuable mission.
Assistant deputy associate administrator, Lakiesha Hawkins, of the Moon to Mars Program Office at NASA, underscored the agency's dedication to secure landings in the uncharted lunar South Pole, emphasizing the potential for groundbreaking scientific findings and advances in lunar habitation.
The candidate landing sites feature varied geological features promising ample opportunities for scientific studies:
1. Peak near Cabeus B
2. Haworth
3. Malapert Massif
4. Mons Mouton Plateau and Mons Mouton
5. Nobile Rim 1 and 2
6. de Gerlache Rim 2
7. Slater Plain
These areas have been meticulously selected for their unique geological characteristics, mission availability, and the ability to support communication with Earth. The Artemis III geology team aimed to identify sites that not only ensure astronaut safety but also hold the potential to revolutionize our understanding of lunar resources and the broader narratives of rocky planets and solar system history.
Further to guarantee the safety and accessibility of the landing sites, assessments were made of the terrain based on data from NASA's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and a comprehensive spectrum of lunar science research. The selection process incorporated the launch window schedule, the projected trajectory capabilities of the SLS rocket, the Orion spacecraft, and the Starship HLS.
NASA's chief exploration scientist, Jacob Bleacher, highlighted the significance of the South Pole, both in its distinctness from the Apollo missions' landing spots and its scientific potential. The Artemis III mission looks to open the door for detailed exploration of this largely unknown lunar territory.
As part of their ongoing mission planning, NASA will aim to involve the lunar science community in analyzing potential landing sites, as well as preparing the geologic maps which will be crucial for the Artemis missions that will follow. The site assessment team will also be planning for Artemis IV, which will provide broader scientific endeavors, and the introduction of the LTV during Artemis V.
NASA seeks to finalize the selection of the specific sites within these regions once the mission’s target launch dates are determined, which will clarify the transfer trajectories and the prevailing surface environment conditions.
The mission is a key component of NASA's Artemis campaign, which promises not just scientific discovery, but also historical achievements including landing the first woman, first person of color, and welcoming international partners on the Moon - a staunch commitment to global partnership and progress for humanity's exploration of space.