New contracts for the Artemis Moon Base
As part of its Artemis program, the U.S. space agency NASA has signed agreements with several contractors to deliver modular landers and supporting infrastructure for a sustainable lunar outpost. The contracts cover the design, construction, and integration of systems needed for long‑duration crewed missions on the Moon.
Project PROMISE – A rover for the lunar surface
In parallel with the landing contracts, NASA is studying the feasibility of adapting an existing nuclear‑powered rover, originally built for Mars exploration, for use on the Moon. The initiative, named PROMISE (Powerful, Robust, Mobile, Intelligent Surface Explorer), aims to leverage the spare vehicle as a technology demonstrator.
Technical basis of the spare rover
The rover is based on the Multi‑Mission Rover architecture, equipped with a small fission reactor that provides continuous electrical power. This capability would allow the vehicle to operate for months without reliance on solar energy, a valuable asset for lunar experiments.
Potential mission objectives
A lunar deployment would test nuclear power generation in the Moon’s environment, gather radiation and thermal data, and support scientific investigations of the regolith. Instruments could be added to study permanently shadowed regions, measure temperature gradients, and assess the feasibility of in‑situ resource utilization.
Next steps
NASA intends to finalize a requirements document in the coming months and launch a selection process for a prime contractor. Simultaneously, engineering assessments will determine the modifications needed to adapt the rover to the Moon’s lower gravity and surface conditions.