NASA is working with Blue Origin and SpaceX to accelerate lunar lander development. New operational changes aim to support a crewed Moon landing by 2028.
NASA is working with Blue Origin and SpaceX to return humans to the Moon by 2028. The agency recently updated designs and operations for future crewed landers. These changes aim to speed up progress toward a long-term lunar presence.
Next year, NASA will test rendezvous and docking skills in orbit. Both companies will use test versions of their landers to dock with the Orion spacecraft. This step is vital for ensuring future mission safety.
Also, NASA has shifted the meeting point for landers and Orion. They will now meet in specific orbits rather than a distant lunar orbit. This change helps time and resources for both partners.
Meanwhile, SpaceX plans to use an in-space refueling approach for its Starship lander. Multiple tanker ships will transfer fuel to a depot ship in orbit. This method allows the lander to reach the Moon more efficiently.
Then, Blue Origin will use a three-stage transfer system for its Blue Moon lander. These stages act like a rocket to send the craft toward the Moon. This design maximizes performance while reducing fuel needs for the trip.
Next, both companies must complete an uncrewed demonstration flight. NASA will then certify each system to ensure it meets strict safety standards. These tests confirm that the technology works as intended.
As a result, astronauts will launch from Florida on the SLS rocket inside the Orion spacecraft. Once in orbit, they will transfer to the lander to reach the lunar surface. Two crew members will walk on the Moon during these missions.
Finally, NASA will choose which company leads the first crewed landing in 2028. The agency continues to refine contracts to keep all partners on track. This work supports the goal of exploring the Moon and eventually reaching Mars.