NASA has outlined plans to create a permanent lunar outpost spanning hundreds of square kilometres. The effort begins with robotic missions using autonomous rovers and hopping drones to survey the surface. Later stages will involve astronauts constructing habitats at the lunar south pole.
The project forms part of the Artemis programme, which previously concentrated on crewed flights. Artemis II successfully carried four astronauts around the moon in April. Until now, fewer specifics had been released on base construction timelines.
On 26 May, officials stated that the first three uncrewed missions are scheduled for this year, with at least nine more planned before 2027. The programme divides into three phases. The initial phase runs until 2029 and aims to establish reliable surface access. The second phase continues to 2032 to achieve initial operating capability. The third phase, ending around 2036, will focus on building the main base.
This year’s flights will map the terrain in detail to lower risks for crewed landings and test rovers that will inform future vehicle designs. Moon Base I is set to launch late this year using a lander from Blue Origin. Moon Base II and III will follow, carrying a Griffin lander and rover from Astrobotic plus a lander from Intuitive Machines.
NASA also awarded over $200 million each to Astrolab and Lunar Outpost to develop lunar terrain vehicles. Astrolab’s design supports crew operation and heavy loads, while Lunar Outpost’s focuses on speed and autonomy.
In 2028, the MoonFall mission will deploy four drones for short hops to capture high-resolution images of potential landing zones. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory will build the drones, and Firefly Aerospace will provide the transfer spacecraft.
Details remain limited on power sources, construction methods and radiation protection. Earlier mentions of a nuclear reactor by 2030 were not updated in the latest announcement.
