NASA is gearing up for an exciting mission to the moon as part of the Artemis program. Artemis II is scheduled to launch in late 2024 and aims to return astronauts to the moon for the first time since 1972. This mission will be a crucial step in confirming that the spacecraft’s systems operate as designed with crew aboard in deep space.
In addition to NASA’s Artemis II, several other lunar landers are expected to touch down on the moon’s surface in 2024. Astrobotic Technology’s Peregrine lander and Griffin lander, both equipped with the VIPER rover, are among the anticipated missions. Intuitive Machines is also set to provide two landers for NASA’s use in 2024.
The moon won’t only be visited by NASA and its partners, as Japan’s space agency has its own plans to reach the lunar surface with the SLIM spacecraft in mid-January. Furthermore, the European Space Agency (ESA) will launch the Hera spacecraft in October to study the asteroid system visited by NASA’s DART spacecraft in 2022.
The exploration of space doesn’t stop at the moon. NASA has its sights set on Jupiter’s moon Europa for signs of habitability. The Europa Clipper mission is scheduled to launch in October, marking an important step in understanding the potential for life beyond Earth.
Boeing and NASA are working together to launch the first crewed test flight of the Starliner spacecraft in March 2024. This mission will be closely watched as it signifies an important milestone in the development of new spacecraft technologies.
Speaking of spacecraft, SpaceX is determined to achieve success with its Starship spacecraft in 2024. After two failed tests in 2023, SpaceX is seeking a successful test flight this year. However, the company must first obtain investigation and approval from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before conducting a new Starship test.
All these missions, from returning to the moon to exploring Jupiter’s moons, represent significant advancements in space exploration. Their exciting developments have captured the public’s interest, showcasing humanity’s ongoing journey into the cosmos.
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