Artemis Missions Aim Long-Term Human Presence On Moon

Artemis Missions Aim Long-Term Human Presence On Moon

Why in News ?

NASA’s Artemis II mission, set to carry astronauts around the Moon, marks a major step in renewed lunar exploration. It aims to establish a sustainable human presence and prepare for deep space missions, including Mars exploration, while adhering to the precautionary principle in space operations to ensure a pollution free environment beyond Earth.

Artemis Programme and Mission Objectives:

  • NASA’s Artemis programme represents a new phase of human lunar exploration, moving beyond one-time missions.
  • Artemis I (2022) successfully tested an uncrewed Orion spacecraft around the Moon.
  • Artemis II will carry four astronauts on a similar lunar orbit mission.
  • Future missions aim for human landing by 2028, with regular missions planned every six months.
  • The goal is to build a permanent lunar base, enabling long-duration human stays and scientific research.

Significance for Deep Space Exploration

  • The Moon will act as a stepping stone for Mars and deep space missions.
  • NASA plans to develop infrastructure for:

○   Habitation systems using local resources

○   Logistics and supply chains via repeated missions

○   Scientific experiments and resource utilisation

  • The approach differs from Apollo missions (1969–72), which were short-term and standalone.
  • Artemis aims for continuous human presence, similar to the International Space Station (ISS) model.
  • Technologies like nuclear propulsion systems are being explored for future interplanetary missions, with comprehensive environmental impact assessment protocols to maintain a pollution free environment in space.

About Global Space Race & Lunar Exploration :

●  Key Space Agencies:

○   NASA (USA) – Artemis Programme

○   ISRO (India) – Gaganyaan & future lunar missions

○   CNSA (China) – Lunar base plans

○   JAXA (Japan) & ESA (Europe) – Collaborators

●  International Space Station (ISS):

○   Operational for over 25 years, enabling long-term human space presence

○   Expected to retire soon, replaced by multiple private and national space stations

●  Why Moon Exploration Matters:

○   Testing ground for human survival beyond Earth

○   Access to resources like Helium-3 and water ice

○   Strategic and technological competition among nations

●  Emerging Trends:

○   Increased role of private space companies

○   Focus on sustainability and long-term missions

○   Growing international collaboration and competition

●  India’s Role:

○   From post-Apollo era beginnings, now an active space power and competitor

○   Plans for human spaceflight and lunar exploration