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Details: The plan would require a test flight from the Orion with its European service module on NASA's Space Launch System rocket in June 2020, including the first crew flight at the end of 2022.
- Between the two flights, NASA should create what Lockheed Martin calls Phase 1 of the bridge – a small housing module and a propulsion module orbiting the moon with which Orion would be moored.
- By 2024, NASA is expected to launch a lunar lander on the bridge. From there, a crew could embark on the bridge and land on the lunar surface.
Yes, but: It is not clear whether NASA will accept Lockheed Martin on its proposal.
- The agency has not revealed a specific plan to return to the moon by 2024, but officials are engaging with the private sector to determine how to speed up their schedule.
- NASA is seeking to protect itself from further delays in the development of its SLS mega-rocket. Instead, the agency has planned to use a commercial rocket, such as SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, or Delta IV Heavy from United Launch Alliance to launch the Orion.
What to watch: NASA said it would need the help of business partners to make the landing time to 2024 a reality.
But, but, but: If NASA wishes to use Lockheed's architecture, the space agency will probably have to start financing it now.
"Landing on the moon by 2024 is achievable, but we need to act quickly, manage risks properly, without taking risks for safety, but also for safety, and to make intelligent compromises in technology and technology. architecture, including maximizing the use of existing systems.
– Tim Cichan, Lockheed Martin Space Exploration Architect, at Axios
What we hear Other experts told Axios that a surge in short-term funding was critical to achieving the 2024 goal, with or without the participation of Lockheed. To this end, NASA's administrator, Jim Bridenstine, is preparing a new application for congressional funding for the lunar program.
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