NASA invests in Artemis studies to support lunar exploration
NASA has awarded new study contracts to nine US companies across seven states to develop technologies supporting long-term human presence and operations on the lunar surface. These contracts, issued under the Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships (NextSTEP) Appendix R initiative, align with NASAs Moon to Mars architecture and the Artemis campaigns deep-space exploration goals.
The nine companies selected for awards are Blue Origin, Intuitive Machines, Leidos, Lockheed Martin, MDA Space, Moonprint, Pratt Miller Defense, Sierra Space and Special Aerospace Services.
Nujoud Merancy, Deputy Associate Administrator, Strategy and Architecture Office at NASA Headquarters in Washington, said: 'These contract awards are the catalyst for developing critical capabilities for the Artemis missions and the everyday needs of astronauts for long-term exploration on the lunar surface. The strong response to our request for proposals is a testament to the interest in human exploration and the growing deep-space economy. This is an important step to a sustainable return to the Moon that, along with our commercial partners, will lead to innovation and expand our knowledge for future lunar missions, looking toward Mars.'
The contracts, valued at a total of $24m, focus on advancing innovative logistics and mobility solutions, including autonomous systems and robotics for lunar operations.
NASA continues to collaborate with industry, academia and international partners to refine its exploration strategy. By systematically developing solutions, the agency aims to establish a sustainable lunar presence as a foundation for future crewed missions to Mars and beyond. Tags: NASAlunar missionsMoon to MarsArtemis studiesNextSTEP
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