NASA’s plans for returning people to the moon is now getting its shape but referring NASA’s plans as just returning people to the moon won’t be enough. The reasons for returning people to the moon after so many years are now getting extremely strong. It would lead us to learn a huge amount about the moon also what the moon tells us about the early history of the solar system.
To some extent, I agree with Stephen Hawking when he said the survival of the human race depends on its ability to find new homes elsewhere in the universe because there’s an increasing risk that a disaster will destroy the Earth. Our only hope to survive as a species is to establish ourselves else where in the space and our hope begins with a lunar base. This is the first real step towards finding new homes.
The lunar base will be the central theme in NASA’s going back to the moon effort, in preparation to go to Mars and beyond. This was decided at the NASA Johnson Space Center, space agency planners detailed a global exploration strategy, outlining the themes and objectives of 21st century lunar exploration and the hardware needed to regain a foothold on the moon.
One particular area that’s already receiving high marks by NASA’s lunar architecture team is at the South Pole- a spot on the rim of Shackleton Crater. In addition to having an area that is almost permanently sunlit, it is adjacent to a permanently dark area that might yield water ice. This can prove a strategic position from where astronauts could use the moon’s natural resources to maintain the outpost, and could use the base to prepare for the trip to Mars.
The new thing that one can see in the upcoming NASA’s lunar plan is that it also encourages participation by other nations, as well as non-governmental organizations and commercial groups. One wouldn’t see it evolving as the same way as the International Space Station, though the development of the International Space Station, is an effort involving some 15 nations but initially it is NASA.
NASA’s lunar strategy is evolving from dialogue that has already taken place with 13 other space agencies. A moon outpost will surely yield tangible science benefits, as well as enlarge the sphere of economic activity beyond low Earth orbit.
Via: MSNBC
Comments
This is really cool! I am really excited that NASA is going back to the moon! (to stay this time)
What is really cool is the international collaboration that is going on between different countries. It seems NASA has the funds, but not all of the skills to get us there.
Relying on the private sector, as well as the international space programs worldwide will foster a spirit of cooperation. This may be more effective than the Olympics themselves!