Welcome to the GEGSLA Monthly Newsletter!

We are delighted to introduce the 19th edition of the Global Expert Group on Sustainable Lunar Activities (GEGSLA) monthly newsletter. Your unwavering dedication and collaborative efforts remain the cornerstone of our achievements. In the following pages, you will discover compelling updates and meaningful endeavours that mirror our mutual dedication to lunar exploration and sustainability.

Our expedition is one marked by exploration and conscientious action. By advocating for sustainability, we are forging a path towards a future where lunar activities harmonize with the welfare of our planet and beyond.

UN Summit of the Future Drafts "Pact for the Future" with a Section on Outer Space Governance

At the Summit of the Future at the United Nations in New York , a significant development has emerged with the release of the draft resolution titled The Pact for the Future . This 42-page document, spearheaded by the UN Secretary General , outlines key actions and principles to address pressing global challenges. Among its comprehensive sections, a notable emphasis is placed on the governance and use of outer space, marking it as a critical area for international cooperation.

The Pact underscores the Outer Space Treaty of 1967 as the foundational legal framework guiding the peaceful exploration and use of outer space. It emphasizes that the rapid expansion of space activities—ranging from the growing number of space objects to the impending return of humans to deep space—requires urgent, coordinated action. The document highlights the increasing reliance on outer space systems for everyday human life and their essential role in achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development . The risks, alongside the immense opportunities, are clear, prompting the need for robust governance mechanisms to ensure space remains safe and sustainable for all.

In line with this goal, the draft recommends holding the Fourth United Nations Conference on the Peaceful Exploration of Outer Space (UNISPACE IV) in 2027 . This conference, potentially a pivotal moment for space governance, coincides with the completion of the COPUOS-LSC Space Resources Working Group’s mandate, which is set to make recommendations on international governance frameworks for space resource activities. Key provisions from The Pact for the Future include:

"Action 56. We will strengthen international cooperation for the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes and for the benefit of all humanity.

84. The Outer Space Treaty of 1967 identifies the exploration and use of outer space as the province of all humankind. Humanity’s reliance on space is increasing day by day and the Outer Space Treaty must be recognized as the cornerstone of the international legal regime governing outer space activities. We are living through an age of increased access to and activities in outer space. The growth in the number of objects in outer space, the return of humans to deep space, and our expanding reliance on outer space systems demand urgent action. The safe and sustainable use of space plays a critical role in the achievement of the 2030 Agenda. The opportunities for people and planet are enormous, but there are also risks that must be managed. We encourage the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space to further consult on the proposal to hold a fourth United Nations Conference on the Peaceful Exploration of Outer Space (UNISPACE IV) in 2027. We decide to:

(a) Reaffirm the importance of the widest possible adherence to and full compliance with the 1967 Outer Space Treaty and discuss the establishment of new frameworks for space traffic, space debris and space resources through the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space;

(b) Invite the engagement of relevant private sector, civil society and other relevant stakeholders, where appropriate and applicable, to contribute to intergovernmental processes related to the increased safety and sustainability of outer space."

The draft further emphasizes the importance of involving all relevant stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society, in the governance of space. It calls for discussions on new frameworks for addressing space traffic, debris management, and the use of space resources through the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) .

With the next few years set to be a critical period for space governance, the draft Pact reaffirms the role of COPUOS as the primary forum for these discussions, stressing the need for comprehensive international cooperation to ensure the peaceful and sustainable use of outer space.

As space exploration intensifies and lunar activities become a focal point for nations, the Pact highlights the necessity of collective action to secure the long-term benefits of space for all humankind.

House passes NASA authorization bill, including Artemis items

The House passed a new NASA authorization bill that covers human spaceflight and science programs, while retaining Artemis items. Rep. Frank Lucas (R-Okla.), chair of the House Science Committee, touted the bill essential to keep NASA's Artemis program on track.?“America’s role as a space leader cannot be taken for granted,” he said. “The next nation to land on the lunar surface will play a key role in guiding the norms and practices that may govern lunar and space exploration for decades to come. We cannot cede U.S. leadership at this time.”?The Congressman added that?the bill provides NASA with?“thoughtful, strategic direction across NASA’s mission areas”?that go beyond Artemis to human spaceflight in low Earth orbit, science programs and technology development. In the meantime, the Senate had been working on its own bill, and it remains to be seen how the two will be reconciled. More with Jeff Foust in Space News .

China National Space Administration reconfirms Shang'e-7 and 8 lunar missions schedule and purpose

Bian Zhigang, deputy head of the China National Space Administration (CNSA)?reconfirms the upcoming lunar missions schedule and purpose.?Chang’e-7 will launch in 2026 to land at the lunar south pole and?survey the environment and resources.?Chang’e-8 will launch in 2028 to land at the lunar south pole and conduct??in-situ resource utilization experiments. CNSA deputy head Bian Zhigang also reconfirmed that China’s heavy-lift and ultimately reusable launch vehicles Long March 9 and 10 are slated for demonstration phase. The Long March 9 super heavy-lift launcher is for major space infrastructure projects, initially expandable but aiming reusability by 2040. The Long March 10 aims at reusability, and is being developed to launch crew, including crewed lunar landing missions via insertion of the Mengzhou spacecraft in trans-lunar orbit. CASC is also highly invested in its Tianwen missions.?Tianwen-2 (2025) is a near-Earth asteroid sample return, followed by rendezvous with comet 311P/PANSTARRS.?Tianwen-3 (2028) is a Mars sample return mission.?Tianwen-4 (2030) is a Solar-powered Jupiter orbiter and Uranus flyby. All above missions indicate the seriousness of China when it comes to Lunar and asteroid resources utilization, and Solar System exploration. The CASC high technological stack value is further compounded by its reusable spaceplane that recently landed following 267 days in orbit. More with Andrew Jones in Space News . For the fierce Chinese private sector competition in large, super heavy reusable launchers, see this summary .

The Moon is included in Brazil's new space activities bill

September 2024, Brazil's?Senate Plenary approved a Bill that encourages space activities with Brazilian participation. The text, which contains rules for space exploration, including investments from the private sector, is now awaiting presidential sanction.? The Bill,?O PL 1.006 / 2022, sponsored by congressman Pedro Lucas Fernandes (Uni?o-MA), had already been approved by the Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee (CRE) with a favorable opinion from senator Astronaut Marcos Pontes (PL-SP).?In addition to dealing with launch vehicles, the text regulates the transportation of personnel and material into space; the development of satellites, rockets, spacecraft, stations and their components and equipment; the exploration of celestial bodies such as the Moon, meteors, comets, asteroids or other planets; space tourism; and the removal of debris.?A space operator may transfer control of its artifacts to another, but this will depend on new licensing and authorization. Data and information on all national space activities must be collected, processed and stored in the Brazilian Space Registry (Resbra), accessible to the Air Force Command. More details in Brazilian magazine Aeroflap .

COSPAR to sign Memorandum of Understanding with Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organisation

The Committee on Space Research (COSPAR) has announced, in late August 2024, that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Asia-Pacific Space Cooperation Organisation (APSCO) is planned to be signed this autumn. APSCO is China-led and Beijing-based. This landmark agreement reflects the shared commitment of both organizations to promote international collaboration in space science and strengthen their respective global impacts.

Senegal joins China’s ILRS Moon base project, together with a dozen new members

On September 5, 2024, the Second International Conference on Deep Space Exploration (Tiandu) opened in Tunxi, Anhui, China. It was timed to coincide with Chinese President Xi Jinping helding talks with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who was visiting for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and a state visit.? At the opening ceremony, Li Guoping, chief engineer of the China National Space Administration, and Malam Khair, director of the Senegalese Space Agency, signed the "Agreement on Cooperation in the International Lunar Research Station". The Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL) signed the "Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the International Lunar Research Station" with 10 international organizations. These includes the Belgrade Observatory of Serbia, Spacetalk of Switzerland, Orbital Space of the United Arab Emirates, Space Science Innovation Center of Panama, Bandar Lampung University of Indonesia, National University of Science and Technology of Pakistan, "Belt and Road" Science and Technology Association, together with three African organisations: South African Radio Astronomy Observatory, African Space Development Foundation, and African Business Alliance. So far, more than 10 countries (international organizations) and more than 40 international institutions have signed international cooperation documents with Chinese parties relevant to the ILRS, according to a DSEL statement . China aims to build a basic robotic ILRS by 2035, with five launches to establish power, communications and other infrastructure, gearing up to an extended station capable of long-term human habitation planned for mid-century. Following the latest successes of the Chang'e-5 and 6 missions, Chang’e-7 and 8 are scheduled for 2026 and 2028 respectively (more details with Andrew Jones in Space News ). The China-led ILRS Moon base will be capable of conducting scientific research operations within a 100km (62 mile) radius of the lunar south pole by 2035, according to Wu Yanhua, chief designer of China’s major deep space exploration programme .

India’s space agency ISRO expects a 20%-30% increase in its budget in the coming years, with a strong Moon focus

India’s space agency ISRO expects a 20%-30% increase in its budget in the coming years, its head said in a Reuters NEXT Newsmaker interview late August 2024, describing the agency’s rocket launch prices as on a par with SpaceX’s, though without giving details.?In a wide-ranging interview, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Chairman S Somanath discussed ongoing plans for a heavy-lift booster rocket - capable of carrying large payloads - using a combination of private and public money. He also talked up other goals, including crewed spaceflight.?The Indian government estimates its share of the global space economy market is currently just $8 billion, to be compared to hundreds of billions. But ISRO is aiming to increase that to $44 billion over the next decade, commission its own space station by 2035, and put an Indian person on the Moon by 2040 .

New Augustine Committee report on NASA provides some insights on Artemis

Christophe Bosquillon reviewed the new Augustine Committee report?"NASA Mission Critical Workforce, Infrastructure, and Technology "?just out. ?The report doesn't mince its words about NASA that it sees as being spread too thin. Tim Fernholz provides a summary of the report with takeaways of Payload's conversation with Norm Augustine, and memorable quotes such as?"It's time to repair the roof. And I use that literally, because we were in several facilities where the roof was literally leaking.”?

We used the report search engine with the key word "Artemis " and the result is as follows: 1 hit for Introduction, 5 hits for Systemic Issues, 9 hits for Technology Issues, 12 hits for Infrastructure Issues, zero hit for Workforce Issues, zero hit for Summary List of Findings,?and?only 1 hit in Summary List of Recommendations, which we quote:

“Additional Recommendation 7: NASA should increase support for space communications including?the Deep Space Network (DSN) such that the currently identified maintenance backlog and antenna?oversubscription is eliminated over the next decade. Action 1: Fund new technology development (...). Action 2: Add funding for deferred maintenance projects (...) Action 3: Restore mothballed high efficiency antennas and construct (...) Action 4: Accelerate the construction of the Lunar Exploration Ground Sites network to?accommodate the needs of the Artemis missions and alleviate the load on the DSN (Deep Space Network).”

The report covers comprehensively for the keyword "Artemis" all its Systemic, Technology, and Infrastructure Issues, and only one actionable insight and recommendation centred on alleviating the load of the DSN. This coincides with the timing of the Intuitive Machines annoucement reported elsewhere in this edition: the potential 10-year, $4.82 billion contract granted this month of September 2024 by NASA to Intuitive Machines demonstrates an execution pathway about the need for commercial capabilities to reduce dependence on the DSN.

The keyword "SLS" for Space Launch System returns 6 hits in Technology Issues, but no mention in Summary List of Findings or of Recommendations. The “CLPS” keyword for Commercial Lunar Payload services returns only one hit on Systemic Issues. For both "Artemis" and "SLS" there is ample documentation in "Appendix G: NASA 20-Year Critical Missions" and “Appendix J: Technology Survey Papers." This report is about urgent NASA policy, strategy, funding, and management issues and priorities. The Moon is clearly part of it, perhaps just not the most prominent of these issues in terms of “roof leak fixing emergency”.?

The Moon at the centre of a short documentary by the South China Morning Post

The Moon is at the centre of a short documentary titled "Space race elevates Asia in new world order " produced by the Hong-Kong-based?South China Morning Post.? While Japan, China, and India are clearly designated as leading space countries, emergent space activities in the rest of the region, such as ASEAN nations, are mentioned. The video balances a narrative of space race and militarisation with an objective of peaceful, safe, and sustainable cooperation in space, starting with the Moon. The mechanisms of Artemis and the ILRS are covered. Besides the US and China, India and Japan are highlighted as collaborative partners. Pakistan and Venezuela are emphasised as China's partners for the Moon. The short video concludes with a message of hope:?"Today's space race may be?reminiscent of the Cold War but the?sheer number of competitors has changed?the game. Instead of working against each?other, China, the US, and their partners?may have to find overlap in their shared?interests to discover even more of what?lies beyond."

Lockheed Martin invests in inflatable space structures, to be used on the Moon and beyond

Inflatable space structures are an increasingly popular idea being embraced and tested by a number of companies, including Lockheed Martin. With successful recent airlock tests, Lockheed Martin has decided to seriously invest into?inflatable space structures, to be used on the Moon and beyond. These structures make economic sense, since they carry less weight as a payload, and provide much more volume once deployed. Lockheed Martin is engaged in inflatable structure work as part of NASA’s Next Space Technologies for Exploration Partnerships (NextSTEP) program, a public-private joint venture initiative. Other notable players in this field include Max Space and Sierra Space. More details with Leonard David in Space News .

Namrata Goswami: analysis of India’s space program, including lunar ambitions

In a piece for The Space Review published by Jeff Foust and titled "Measuring the depth of India’s space program," Namrata Goswami analyses the emergence of India as a major Asian powerhouse in space capabilities, including and not limited to lunar ambitions. India has made it as a major space power thanks to its launch capacity, ability to reach the Moon and other planetary bodies, and autonomy in developing such capacities indigenously. The Indian government’s decision to collaborate with its nascent private space sector, both in the civil and military fields, has enormous potential to develop India’s space capabilities in the next decade or so. India fares pretty well regarding launch systems and getting to the lunar surface. However, if India is serious about meeting its grand goals of lunar habitation and human lunar landing by 2040, then India has to develop a heavy-lift rocket. So far, the Department of Space’s vision for the Indian space program does not include the development of a heavy-lift rocket as a priority. Such gaps warrant reconsideration.

NASA’s VIPER Cancellation Faces Pushback Amid Broader Concerns Over Space Exploration Licensing

NASA’s recent cancellation of the VIPER (Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover) mission has sparked significant backlash, with experts and lawmakers alike voicing concerns over the implications for U.S. leadership in lunar exploration. In an opinion piece published in “Space News”, four prominent figures in lunar science—Clive R. Neal, Ryan Whitley, Daniel Britt, and Philip Metzger—expressed their strong opposition to the decision. They argue that the termination of VIPER is a critical misstep, stating, "If the U.S. is serious about its leadership at the Moon, staying true to its ideals of science, and committing to solving hard problems, we should finish what we started. "

These experts emphasize that the cancellation not only undermines scientific progress but also questions the U.S.'s ability to collaborate with international and commercial partners. With nations like Japan and India already achieving lunar landings, the authors suggest that NASA should explore partnerships to keep the VIPER mission alive. "Will NASA consider working with international partners if a U.S. company cannot afford to keep it going?" they ask, stressing that the decision could impact the broader goal of building a vibrant space exploration program.

Meanwhile, the cancellation of VIPER is also being scrutinized in the U.S. Congress , where lawmakers have raised concerns about broader regulatory delays affecting the Artemis program. During a recent House Space Subcommittee hearing, members criticized the FAA’s slow pace in issuing launch licenses , which is seen as a potential bottleneck for the Artemis missions. Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas) warned that such delays could put the U.S. at a disadvantage, stating that "China will launch taikonauts to the Moon while U.S. industry remains tethered to Earth with red tape." His concerns were echoed by Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Mich.), who pointed out the vital role of commercial spacecraft in achieving NASA’s lunar ambitions.

While the FAA defended its process, highlighting its ongoing efforts to work efficiently with companies like SpaceX, tensions remain high. SpaceX has also voiced frustration, accusing the FAA of creating “systemic challenges” in launch licensing . Despite these issues, Congress may not be ready to let the VIPER program go. Lawmakers have hinted that the decision could be reversed, with phrases like “if the project is to be terminated” suggesting that the program’s fate may not yet be sealed.

As the debate over VIPER’s cancellation and FAA regulations continues, the future of U.S. lunar exploration hangs in the balance, with leadership and international collaboration at the forefront of the discussion.

Interlune's lunar resources plans start with Helium-3

Seattle-based?Interlune's priority is Helium-3. The company was founded in 2020 by chief technology officer Gary Lai, former Blue Origin President Rob Meyerson, Apollo 17 astronaut and geologist Harrison Schmitt, Indra Hornsby, former Blacksky and Spaceflight Industries general counsel, and James Antifaev, former Spaceflight director for new and emerging markets. In a Sept. 10 blog post , Lai revealed details of Interlune’s plan for robotic collection and automated processing of regolith. Supplying Helium-3 to terrestrial markets in the 2030s is the first step. In the long run, the startup aims to “harvest other resources such as industrial metals, rare Earth elements, and rocket propellant to support a long-term presence on the Moon and a robust in-space economy,” according to the blog. Interlune has received several hundred thousand $ in grants and announced an $15 million seed funding round in March 2024 led by Seven Seven Six, an early-stage VC firm. Interlune's plan is to work with CLPS missions to carry its hardware payloads to the Moon and be ready in time when SpaceX and Blue Origin landers are operational. As reported by Debra Werner in Space News , the blog concluded with: "“we hope this summary helps build excitement and conviction around the Interlune mission to lead the world in sustainable, responsible harvesting of natural resources from space to benefit humanity."

Top US government watchdog nails NASA for cost and schedule overruns over SLS infrastructure and the Artemis program

NASA’s top watchdog published its most scathing report yet on the agency’s management of the SLS ground structure construction project at KSC, called "Mobile Launcher 2 (ML-2) ." The Inspector General report, released late August 2024, describes significant cost and schedule overruns that will likely leave that ground structure to launch SLS unfinished when Artemis IV is scheduled to launch in September 2028. What was originally a $383M contract to be finished by 2023 has ballooned into potentially $2.7B construction that won't see completion until 2029 . Thus it comes as no surprise that NASA’s inspector general predicts continued cost growth for SLS mobile launch platform, since the contract for this second mobile launch platform could end up costing NASA more than six times its original value . These findings translate into Phase IV of the Artemis programme further drifting toward the late 2020's. But it remains to be seen first whether the upcoming launches of Artemis II (2025) and III (2026 - with astronauts) will happen as scheduled.?

Chang’e-6 and China’s Vision for Space Science: A Unified Path Forward

On June 25, 2024, China’s Chang’e-6 lunar far side sample return mission successfully delivered a reentry module containing material from the Apollo crater back to Earth. However, the mission did not end there. After completing the 53-day mission, the Chang’e-6 orbiter fired its engines to avoid reentering Earth’s atmosphere and set off on a new trajectory, eventually reaching the Sun-Earth Lagrange point (L2). This region offers a stable orbit, a clear view of deep space, and reduced interference from Earth, making it an ideal location for astronomy and space science missions. The orbiter is now expected to conduct observations, test communications, and assess the local space environment at L2. This same region is utilized by the James Webb Space Telescope, and in 2028, China plans to send its ambitious “Earth 2.0” exoplanet-hunting mission to L2.

This ongoing exploration aligns with China’s broader long-term space science strategy, as outlined in a recent paper authored by Wang Chi, Director of the National Space Sciences Center (NSSC) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). An English translation can be found here . Published in the Chinese Journal of Space Sciences, the study details China’s medium and long-term plans for space science. Leveraging recent achievements in lunar exploration, dark matter, quantum, and space physics, China aims to accelerate its space science capabilities and solidify its global role in the field. The strategic framework is encapsulated in the formula: “One Black, Two Dark, Three Origins, and Five Characterizations,” which focuses on the study of black holes, dark matter and dark energy, the origins of the universe, the solar system, and life, as well as the characterization of various space environments.

Future missions like the Chang’e-7 lunar south polar landing mission, the 2025 Tianwen-2 asteroid sample return mission, and contributions from the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) and the Tiangong Space Station will further support China's vision. These scientific endeavors are not only vital for advancing space science but are also integral to the industrialization of the Earth-Moon system, helping to foster a burgeoning space economy.

More details on these developments can be found in “Space News”, reported by Andrew Jones .

Lunar Outpost adds Leidos to its Lunar Dawn Team part of NASA’s Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services program

Colorado-based Lunar Outpost has added Leidos to its Lunar Dawn team which is in charge of designing a rover for NASA’s Artemis Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV) Services program, in the Artemis context. In April 2024, besides Lunar Outpost, NASA had also contractually selected Astrolab and Intuitive Machines for the first phase of the program. The current Lunar Dawn team led by Lunar Outpost is made of General Motors, Goodyear, and MDA Space, joined now by Leidos. Leidos will provide its expertise in human factors as well as areas like mission assurance and systems engineering. “Astronaut safety is our number one priority when building our vehicle, and we are thrilled to have the industry leader in human-centered design on our team,” said Forrest Meyen, program manager for Lunar Dawn at Lunar Outpost, in a statement. Lockheed Martin, once dubbed a “principal partner” by Lunar Outpost, is no longer part of the project team. More with Jeff Foust in Space News .

Nokia and Axiom partner to bring 4G to lunar space suits

As a cost improvement over the Apollo era, NASA has previously contracted Nokia to outfit astronauts’ lunar communication with off-the-shelf tech. This went one step further in late August, when Axiom, NASA’s space suit contractor, said last week that it will use Nokia’s tech. This means the primary comms system for AxEMU space suits that astronauts will wear during the Artemis III landing will bear the Nokia signature. To cover Nokia's communications upgrade, NASA added $57.5M to the Axiom’s suit task order, which is now valued at $285.5M. More details are available in payload's exclusive report by Tim Fernholz .

Lava tubes seen as a serious option for Chinese lunar base plans

Lunar lava tubes provide essential shielding for crew and infrastructure from radiation and micrometeorites. In a Space News article by Andrew Jones ,?Clive Neal, professor and lunar scientist at the University of Notre Dame, is quoted as saying that Chinese researchers are keenly aware of the potential of lava tubes and serious about their robotic and crewed lunar plans. This comment followed a series of papers on lava tubes recently published in the Chinese language Journal of Deep Space Exploration (JDSE).

These papers focus on detection, modeling, research status, and exploration of lunar lava tubes. One paper, titled "Current status of lava tube exploration in solar system bodies " calls for the first systematic detection of lava tubes on extraterrestrial bodies, use of terrestrial lava tubes as analog sites, and notes that extraterrestrial lava tubes are not only natural shelters, but may also hold the remains of ancient life. Another paper, titled?"Lunar lava tube exploration and development plan design ” involves mobile robots equipped with 3D imaging and navigation systems, surface rovers to explore and map the entrance of lava tubes, and smaller, more agile robots or drones to enter and explore the tubes themselves. A third paper titled "An ultrasonic drill for drilling into lunar lava tubes ” and a fourth titled "3D Detection and Surface Verification of Extraterrestrial Lava Tubes Based on Lightweight Mobile Measurement System " complete this series. This underscores a bold Chinese effort to develop a systematic approach for exploring and utilizing lava tubes, for integration in the ILRS project.?

According to Clive Neal, “With the cancellation of VIPER, the US has basically ceded leadership in lunar resource exploration. China has two missions going to the South Pole to prospect for lunar volatiles, with Chang’e-7 and Chang’e-8. China is serious about a human-tended lunar outpost. The US does not appear to be ready to be serious about this. It is unfortunate that, unlike China, we do not have a cohesive plan for human and robotic exploration of the Moon like China has. China has figured out the enormity of burying a habitat at the south pole, or is planning to set up multiple habitats across the Moon, using lava tubes in the mare basalt regions. This alone should be a wake-up call for America, The US needs to wake up because we are rapidly being left behind. China will get to set a precedent on how lunar resources are used because they have a plan.?If we want to have a vibrant cislunar economy underpinned by lunar resources, VIPER should be the first in a series of rover missions, not only for water ice, but for helium-3, rare earth elements, and platinum group elements.” ?

There are currently no known approved missions to explore lava tubes. China’s Chang’e-7 mission will assess resources around the Shackleton crater with orbital and surface sensors (2026). A hopping rover will seek out evidence of water-ice in permanently shadowed regions. Chang’e-8 (will test 3D printing on the lunar surface and in-situ resource utilization 2028). Lava tubes exploration will require to send more hardware to the Moon, which is more likely to happen in the 2030's. There is a ton of lava tubes literature in NASA's and other relevant parties' research stack. The thing now is to plan it and make it happen.?

Lunar operations M&A: T2S Solutions Acquires Flexitech Aerospace

In early Sept. 2024, US-based T2S Solutions, a provider of product and solutions in support of U.S. Defense and Intelligence Missions, ?announced its acquisition of ?Flexitech Aerospace, a leading radio-frequency (RF) engineering company that provides analysis, design and manufacturing of spaceflight RF communications systems and components . The resulting integration expands the merged entity footprint into spaceflight product offerings for Earth orbit and lunar operations.

India approves the Chandrayaan-4 moon sample return mission and 3 other major space projects

On 18 September 2024, the Indian government?union cabinet, chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the Chandrayaan-4 moon sample return mission. The mission will fly on a budget of around 21 billion Indian rupees which is worth about a rather competitive one quarter billion US dollar. (we’re looking at you, other space agencies!) As quoted in the Times of India ,?Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman S Somanath said that?"Chandrayaaan 4 mission is primarily targeted to demonstrate the technology to go to the Moon and then come back. The coming back is a highlight of it, landing there has already been demonstrated by Chandrayaan-3. If you have to send a man to space later in 2040, a?vision by our PM, we need to have confidence in technology. Right now, we don't have it. So we have to go step by step." The Chandrayaan-4 moon sample return mission will use two LVM 3 rockets, to launch separately propulsion, lander and ascender modules as first payload, and transfer and reentry modules as second payload. In addition to Chandrayaan-4, the Indian government approved 3 other major space projects: a Venus orbiter, the first Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1) module, and a reusable launcher with increased payload capacity. The Indian space budget is on the rise to support the Gaganyaan program approved in 2018 with the goal of developing independent human spaceflight capabilities, with clear orbital, lunar, and space exploration ambitions for India. More with Jeff Foust in Space News .

Thales-Alenia lunar habitat details emerge: welcome to “la casa italiana”

?

In 2022, the Italian Space Agency (ASI) signed a pair of agreements with NASA that would see ASI take the lead on the preliminary design of the lunar surface Multi-Purpose Habitation (MPH) module. In November 2023, Thales Alenia Space was awarded the contract to lead the module’s preliminary design process. In July 2024, both Thales and ASI announced that the preliminary design had passed a mission definition review. NASA will decide whether to move forward with the MPH module in late 2025. An interview published by Fondazione Leonardo with Thales Alenia Space Multi-Purpose Habitation module programme manager Nicola Genco, revealed several key details. One interesting aspect of the interior design is it features “modular solutions that can change shape based on use and time of day” to make the best of limited volumes. Andrew Parsonson, Founder of European Spaceflight, provides a summary of the Italian interview here .

Independent review confirms the?Astrobotic?Peregrine mission ended prematurely due to a valve failure

Back in January 2024, the?Astrobotic?Peregrine lunar lander mission ended early in cislunar space and had to return toward Earth for an atmospheric re-entry?burn. An independent review has now confirmed what was long considered, which is that the problem happened due to the failure of one single valve. This led to a complete redesign of Astrobotic landers valves. This new valve design will be used for the much bigger Griffin lander, expected to launch toward the end of the current year 2024. See details in reporting by Stephen Clark for Are Technica and Jeff Foust for Space News .

NASA Selects Intuitive Machines for Lunar Lander and Communication Services, Expanding Lunar Exploration Capabilities

NASA has made significant strides in its lunar exploration initiatives by selecting Intuitive Machines for two major missions aimed at the Moon’s south pole and lunar communication infrastructure. On one hand, NASA awarded Intuitive Machines a contract to deliver a set of six scientific payloads to the Moon’s south polar region in 2027. This mission, part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, marks the first CLPS award in nearly 18 months. The payloads include biology, planetary science, and space science experiments, alongside a laser retroreflector array. Notably, one of the payloads, the Package for Resource Observation and In-Situ Prospecting for Exploration, Characterization, and Testing (PROSPECT), comes from the European Space Agency (ESA) and will drill a meter deep into the lunar surface to search for volatiles such as water ice. More details from Jeff Foust in Space News. Additionally, Intuitive Machines has been praised for its positive response to NASA’s handover of the VIPER rover program to the private sector. More information from Tim Fernholz in Payload.

In a parallel development, Intuitive Machines has secured a $4.82 billion contract from NASA to provide communications and navigation services as part of the Near Space Network. This 10-year contract, which includes a five-year base term and an optional five-year extension, focuses on supporting NASA's lunar relay systems, reducing the agency's reliance on the already overburdened Deep Space Network (DSN). Intuitive Machines' involvement will be critical to supporting future Artemis missions and fostering the growth of the lunar economy. "This contract marks an inflection point in Intuitive Machines’ leadership in space communications and navigation," stated Steve Altemus, CEO of Intuitive Machines. Further details can be found in Space News and Payload.

?Both missions underscore NASA’s commitment to fostering private sector involvement in lunar exploration while expanding the technological and scientific infrastructure needed for sustainable lunar activities. Intuitive Machines is set to play a key role in advancing both lunar research and communications, supporting NASA’s long-term Artemis goals.

Caltech and Intuitive Machines confirm readiness ice-hunting Lunar Trailblazer and IM-2 for January 2025 launch

As reported by Leonard David as a NASA Small Innovative Missions for Planetary Exploration (SIMPLEx) program spacecraft, Lunar Trailblazer’s lower-budget scientific mission is considered a secondary but still important ice snooping project. It will be launched with the IM-2, a Nova-C lunar lander dubbed Athena. The IM-2 lander and Lunar Trailblazer moon orbiter will launch together on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.?Intuitive Machines spokesperson Josh Marshall told SpaceNews that they plan on delivering the IM-2 lunar lander to NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida for launch preparations in the 4th quarter of 2024, “with an extended mission window reaching into January.”?“We launch when IM-2 does, which we anticipate is soon,” Lunar Trailblazer principal investigator and Caltech planetary science professor Bethany Ehlmann told SpaceNews.

ispace confirms Hakuto-R Mission 2 launch to take place no earlier than December 2024

To mark Japan’s national Space Day (12 September) ispace announced that its Mission 2, featuring the RESILIENCE lunar lander and TENACIOUS micro rover, is now planned to launch no earlier than December 2024 . “I am very happy to announce that the RESILIENCE lander assembly and integration is complete, and we are on schedule for our planned launch no earlier than this December, the landing site has been decided, and preparations for Mission 2 are progressing steadily,” said Takeshi Hakamada, Founder & CEO of ispace. “As we have said all along, Mission 2 development and mission planning are being determined based on feedback from the lessons learned during Mission 1. We are encouraged by the support from our stakeholders, and the entire team is working towards the success of the mission. Never Quit the Lunar Quest.” As reminded by Tim Fernholz , ispace is one of three private companies that will attempt Moon landings this winter, and the only mission not funded by NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. However, its third mission with US contractor Draper is backed by CLPS.?The other missions,?expected to fly on Falcon 9s, are Blue Ghost, the first landing attempt under the CLPS program for Firefly Aerospace, expected to launch in November, and IM-2, the second CLPS mission from Intuitive Machines, also scheduled for a December launch.

Space Applications Services presents PUPPETEER, a lunar gravity simulator for astronaut training and space mission preparation

In collaboration with German Aerospace Center (DLR) and ESA, Space Applications Services presents PUPPETEER, a cutting-edge Mobile Gravity Off-loading system that simulates lunar gravity for astronaut training and space mission preparation .?It will be a core feature of ESA and DLR’s LUNA facility in Cologne, a 700-square-metre lunar analogue for advanced simulation and training. PUPPETEER's ceiling crawler vehicles, equipped with Constant Force Modules, provide gravity off-loading to multiple astronauts, rovers and equipment allowing each to freely move and interact without the usual constraints of crane-based solutions. The system allows physically close interactions and can accurately track and follow the natural movements of a person/rover moving under the ceiling crawler. Space Applications will deliver a single demonstration Puppeteer crawler by July, with plans to integrate a full system of four vehicles into the 700-sq-m lunar training facility the following year—three for astronauts and one that can be used to simulate a heavier payload, such as a lunar rover. DLR will have the option to purchase more vehicles down the line.??The company is also in talks with other space agencies including NASA and the Italian Space Agency, who’ve shown interest in deploying this technology to train their own astronauts and scientists. More with Douglas Gorman in Payload .

Recent update on the CLPS program with upcoming flights manifest for 4Q2024-2025

?In an update for Payload titled? "The Road to the Forum: the CLPS Era ," Jacqueline Feldscher recapitulates the brief history?of the Commercial Lunar Payload Services or CLPS program (pronounce "kleeps"). Over the next several months, traffic is expected to ramp up on the Moon, with commercial vehicles only as far as the US is concerned. The upcoming CLPS flights manifest includes: Firefly, expected to fly its first Blue Ghost mission for NASA in Q4; Intuitive Machines, planning to launch its second mission this year, and targeting its third mission in 2025; Astrobotic, aiming to fly a dummy payload on its Griffin lander in fall 2025 after NASA canceled the VIPER mission; and Draper, expecting to launch its first CLPS mission in partnership with ispace next year. ?

Lunar and Planetary Institute Lunar Surface Science Workshop: "Virtual Session 25: Plume-Surface Interactions"

On 17-18 September 2024, the Lunar and Planetary Institute held a?Lunar Surface Science Workshop. The "Virtual Session 25: Plume-Surface Interactions" took place as traffic to the lunar surface increases, and understanding rocket exhaust-induced plume-surface interactions is crucial to safely land, protect hardware, understand potentially detrimental effects on the lunar environment, and conduct scientific investigations. Plume-surface interaction research is necessarily multi-disciplinary, which benefits the discipline by engaging researchers across a diverse range of technical and scientific backgrounds, but this can also lead to fragmented approaches. This workshop seeks to engage the broader community working on the plume-surface interaction problem to identify knowledge gaps, foster collaboration, and raise awareness about research capabilities. The detailed technical program over 2 days is available here.

GEGSLA's Active Role in IAC 2024: Promoting Sustainable Lunar Activities

The Global Expert Group on Sustainable Lunar Activities (GEGSLA) continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of lunar exploration, and their involvement in the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) 2024 is a testament to the ongoing commitment to sustainable and peaceful lunar activities.

At IAC 2024, GEGSLA will present two papers that highlight the group's efforts and achievements in fostering international collaboration and developing comprehensive frameworks for sustainable lunar operations. The two key presentations at IAC 2024 are related to the GEGSLA Operational Phase Results and Outlook, as well as the Role of Lunar Exploration and Utilization for the Earth Environment. GEGSLA will be present within the session D4.2. “Contribution of Moon Village to Solving Global Societal Issues ”.

These presentations will offer valuable insights into how GEGSLA's initiatives are contributing to the advancement of lunar governance and environmental stewardship, reinforcing the importance of international cooperation in ensuring that lunar activities are conducted in a manner that is both sustainable and beneficial to all humankind.

MVA - IAC 2024 - Online GNF webinar "Sustainable Lunar Environment: The Next Challenge"

On 27 September 2024, MVA hosted a discussion in the context of IAC 2024 – Online GNF, on the topic of "Sustainable Lunar Environment: The Next Challenge." MVA President Dr. Giuseppe Reibaldi moderated a panel with TimothyCichan, Lockheed Martin; Richard Green, IAU; Jim Keravala, Off World Inc.; Jean Claude Worms, COSPAR. The interest in the exploration and utilisation of the Moon has seen a major surge of efforts globally in the last few years. Several missions have already been launched from many stakeholders, and many more are planned in the next few years (i.e.more than 100 missions are planned till 2030). These include the return of humans to the Moon. However so far the main space treaties do not provide indications on how to behave on/around the moon and avoid harmuful interference. Furthermore, as the Moon exploration and utilization of the Moon, is the next big step for humanity, there is the imperative goal to cooperate in order to involve as many countries as possible and avoid major mistakes like for the Earth Environment. In particular, commercial and science driven lunar missions needs to find a balance betwenn their objectives. This is why there is an urgent need to initiate discussion and define concrete actions involving the relevat organizations. The panel initiated this discussion to open participation of as many stakeholders as possible. Watch on MVA website or on the IAF YouTube account .

Prof. Mark J. Sundahl: update on GEGSLA WG3 activity and new leadership

Our friend and colleague Prof. Mark J. Sundahl , Director, Global Space Law Center at Cleveland State University College of Law, Ohio, USA , and co-chair of the GEGSLA WG3 on Lunar Multi-stakeholder Coordination , has provided an activity and status update calling members back into service. Perhaps more importantly, GEGSLA WG3 is having a change of leadership. We invite you all to join us in thanking Mr. Yu Xu for his leadership and his willingness to share his expertise with the GEGSLA. For us it has been a pleasure working with Mr. Yu Xu. GEGSLA is now honored to announce that Dr. Wang Zhongmin, Director of International Outreach for China’s Deep Space Exploration Laboratory (DSEL) , has graciously agreed to join WG3 as co-chair. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing those of you able to attend the GEGSLA meeting in Milan on the 18th.

8th Global Moon Village Workshop & Symposium: Luxembourg, December 2024

The 8th Global Moon Village Workshop & Symposium, hosted by the Luxembourg Space Agency and the Moon Village Association (MVA), will take place from December 2-3, 2024, at the European Convention Center in Luxembourg. This annual forum is a significant event for global leaders and experts in lunar exploration and utilization, offering a platform to discuss the latest developments and future plans related to humanity’s expansion to the Moon.

As the MVA’s premier event, the Workshop & Symposium will focus on the recent progress made in the Moon Village initiative, bringing together stakeholders from government space agencies, commercial entities, and academia. Participants will share insights, innovative ideas, and key information, fostering international collaboration to advance sustainable lunar activities.

?This event follows the successful 7th Global Moon Village Workshop & Symposium held in Kurashiki & Tottori, Japan, and the 6th edition in Los Angeles, USA, continuing the tradition of gathering experts dedicated to humanity’s future on the Moon.

?

For more information about the upcoming event and previous workshops, visit the MVA website and scan the QR code above.

?Join as a GEGSLA Participant

If you're interested in joining GEGSLA as a participant in its Operational Phase and support the dissemination of the Recommended Framework , you may express your interest at the form here . This Expression of Interest form is designed to gather information from individuals who are interested in becoming members of the group. It includes questions about the applicant's background, expertise, and interest in sustainable lunar activities. The purpose of this form is to recruit qualified individuals who can contribute to the group's mission of promoting sustainable and responsible lunar activities through the GEGSLA Framework.

Outreach Events on Lunar Coordination and the GEGSLA Framework

We invite all community members to join us in spreading lunar knowledge by organizing Outreach Events focused on Lunar Coordination and the GEGSLA Framework. Whether you're a seasoned space expert or simply curious about lunar advancements, outreach events provide a platform to discuss and learn about optimized lunar infrastructure and its implications for the future. It is a great opportunity to share insights, engage with fellow enthusiasts, and contribute to the expansion of lunar knowledge. If you are organizing an outreach event related to our work at GEGSLA or have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]

MVA Adaptive Governance Working Group

The Adaptive Governance Working Group (AGWG) of the Moon Village Association is dedicated to promoting cooperation, coordination and governance for peaceful and sustainable activities on the Moon, converging with the work of GEGSLA. Among its recent activities are the Registration Project, the inputs for the UN COPUOS LSC Working Group on Legal Aspects of Space Resource Activities and the ongoing Benefit Sharing Project (BSP). Get involved by contacting the WG secretary Constantine Arhontas at [email protected] .

PromoMoon holds scheduled B2B mentoring session for the three winners of 3rd PromoMoon Initiative-2024

?

On 18 September 2024, PromoMoon held its scheduled B2B mentoring session for the three winners of its 3rd PromoMoon Initiative-2024 , a series of events organized by Oleg Ventskovskyy and Shima Suresh. All 3 winners are focused on development of lunar infrastructure as well as building blocks and machine components:

+ Space Copy: Regolith Extraction and Processing Technology For Lunar-Enabled Manufacturing - Canadian start-up led by Madison C. Feehan, B.Com .

+ Development of the concept of in-situ thermal dissociation of regolith oxide compounds under the influence of an electromagnetic field to produce oxygen gas in relation to lunar conditions, Ukrainian project led by Molchanov Lavr, Golub Tetiana, Borisenko Andriy, Iron and steel institute of Z.I. Nekrasov of National academy of science of Ukraine – State research center, Ukraine.

+ Development of materials for machines that will extract water on the Moon, Ukrainian project led by Derkach O., Makarenko D., Muranov Y., Kabat O. Dnipro State Agrarian and Economic University – Team of young professionals.

The evaluation committee consisted of MVA members, and of a Yuzhnoye SDO experts team led by Maksym Degtiarov.

MVA members: ● ?Christophe Bosquillon – Founder and CEO, Autonomous Space Futures Ltd. ● ?Christophe Bonnal – Senior Expert, MaiaSpace ● ?Prof. Dr. Bernd J. Hoefer – Chairman & CEO, A9C Capital W.L.L. ● ?Akira Tsuchida – Vice President, Real Works Japan, LLC ● ?Francois Dubrulle – Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Qosmosys

● ?Yuzhnoye SDO experts team led by Maksym Degtiarov:

● Oleksandr Berdnyk – Head of Group, Space Launch Systems and Launch Vehicles ● Andrii Pustovharov – Head of Group, Missile Complexes and Space Launch Systems Ground Infrastructure ● Iryna Husarova – Doctor of Engineering Sciences, Lead Specialist, Special Rocket and Space Systems ● Yevheniia Yermolenko – Head of Department, Marketing and Strategic Planning

Kudos to Akira Tsuchida-san of Japan, for his realistic assessment and collaborative prospects. The Yuzhnoye experts team demonstrated deep knowledge and experience, covering the full spectrum of lunar tech business development. Yuzhnoye was instrumental for the sessions to dive into a thorough examination of the projects strengths and challenges: proof of concept and technical feasibility, industrial property, scaling from prototype to lunar operational stage, feasibility of transporting the projects equipment to the Moon, techno-economic advantage over competing solutions, marketability, and prospects of international cooperation. The sessions brought clarity and encouragement to the teams who now can see their work cut out for them.?

A closing ceremony is scheduled for 02 October 2024 where all 3 teams will benefit from a mentoring wrap-up and will get their winners certificates. The ceremony will also be the last event in the series of the International Moon Day (IMD) 2024 festivities. The IMD, run by the MVA, is held worldwide since 2022, starting from July 20th each year.?

Luxembourg Space Agency , COSPAR – Committee on Space Research and Lockheed Martin . We are grateful for their continued support in our efforts to foster sustainability and inclusion in future lunar activities. Our sponsors are essential players in making our vision for an international Moon Village a reality.

GEGSLA is committed to advancing the cause of sustainable lunar exploration on a global scale. In line with MVA's mission, we promote peaceful, collaborative, and sustainable lunar activities while fostering international cooperation. We believe that the Moon holds immense potential for scientific, economic, and societal advancement and is vital to humanity's future.

In 2024, we have ambitious plans to further these goals:

1. Policy Advocacy within the UN Framework: We will continue our engagement with international space organizations and policymakers to advocate for policies promoting responsible lunar resource use. We'll share our Recommended Framework for Sustainable Lunar Activities, focusing on bodies like the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and the Summit of the Future (SoF).

2. Raising Awareness via Outreach: GEGSLA will actively raise awareness about lunar sustainability through webinars, seminars, and conferences. We aim to present our findings during COPUOS sessions, ensuring our recommendations are considered at the highest levels of space governance.

3. Collaborative Projects: We seek partnerships with organizations sharing our vision to initiate projects in lunar exploration, research, and sustainability, turning our framework into actionable solutions.

4. Working Groups: Expert-led working groups will tackle lunar sustainability facets, developing guidelines and recommendations.

Your sponsorship of GEGSLA for our 2024 activities directly contributes to lunar exploration and sustainable Moon presence. It supports planning and execution of these activities, ensuring their success. In return, we offer tailored benefits, including prominent visibility, acknowledgments, and networking opportunities.

By joining us, you demonstrate commitment to responsible space exploration and play a pivotal role in shaping lunar activities' future. We are actively seeking sponsors to be confirmed by end of November 2023.

If you are interested in sponsoring GEGSLA's activities, you may contact us at [email protected] or donate directly to GEGSLA through the MVA website here .

Coming in October 18th: 7th GEGSLA Operational Meeting

The Global Experts Group on Sustainable Lunar Activities (GEGSLA) will hold its 7th operational meeting on October 18, 2024, from 14:00 to 18:00 CEST, in the margins of IAC 2024 in Milano, Italy . This physical gathering will bring together leading experts and stakeholders to discuss the ongoing efforts and future strategies for sustainable lunar exploration and utilization.

The meeting highlights the importance of international cooperation and strategic planning in ensuring the sustainable exploration and utilization of lunar resources, setting the stage for significant advancements in the coming years. If you are interested joining the meeting, you may contact us at [email protected] .

Contact Us

If you would like to share news or events in our next monthly newsletter, partner with GEGSLA, or highlight your organization's work, reach out to us at [email protected]