NASA’sArtemis program isn’t just about getting humans back to the moon.
It’s also about sending machines, including the water-hunting Viper lunar rover.
It will map the area and look for water at the surface and below.
NASA describes the lunar south pole as “one of the coldest areas in our solar system.”
The Nobile region is home to plenty of shaded areas that are prime spots to look for ice.
The solar-powered Viper is aiming for a 100-day mission.
It will be able to drill, collect and analyze samples.
NASA shared a video tour of the landing site, including a possible route the rover might cover.
Viper is scheduled tolaunch in 2023 on a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
All of this work could help set the stage for a long-term human presence on the moon.
It might be relatively close to us, space-wise, but it’s a long way from home.
