▲ Artemis Ⅰ took off on the 15th of November EST in Florida

National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) stated the possibility of humans’ stay on the Moon for lengthy periods. Howard Hu, the head of the Lunar Explore Program of NASA, officially said humans could stay on the Moon for lengthy periods of time during this decade, before 2030, mentioning the successful launch of the Artemis Ⅰ rocket on the 15th of November EST.

The Artemis program, a part of long- term lunar exploration plans, is aimed at a long stay on the Moon through establishing a sustainable platform. The program is composed of eight steps. With Artemis Ⅰ, the first step is an uncrewed flight, which will test the conduct of the Orion Space spacecraft, and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. On the second step, four astronauts will travel in Earth’s orbit, and conduct extensive tests of the operation system of the spacecraft, especially Orion’s manual control performance, hardware and software function evaluation. On the third step, astronauts will reach the surface of the Moon through the Human Landing System (HLS) and conduct scientific activities. In this crew, the first woman, and first person of color will be included.

Further steps include establishing the Luna Gateway and additional infrastructure. The gateway will be built in lunar orbit, which will help scientists conduct scientific research and support sustainable space exploration. Meanwhile, Orion’s communication and navigation systems are equipped, which is performed by GPS satellites and the Tracking and Data Relay Satellites of NASA’s Space Network. Additionally, several private companies are involved in cooperation as part of the development of probes. Various countries also take part in cooperation, including the European Space Agency, Republic of Korea, Commonwealth of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Island, and the United Arab Emirates.

Then, why do humans pursue exploration towards expanding universe? Humans watch for opportunities such as improving scientific knowledge, exploration preparation, public engagement, global partnership, and human civilization through this plan. Through Moon exploration, humans can explore the origins and structure of the solar system and universe by addressing fundamental questions about the history of Earth. Also, as exploration preparations are made for Mars and beyond, it can reduce the risk of danger and increase the productivity of future missions. Moreover, it can provide for future generations to learn science, technology, engineering, and math as it applies to real life, which will lead to discoveries and innovations. Furthermore, this common goal enables nations to unite by bringing them shared and peaceful objectives. Finally, it will help humans arrange ultimate settlement. NASA’s exploration establishes sustainable development with technological advances. It will contribute to providing opportunities for research and technology development for humans, to prepare for exploration on Mars and beyond.

Hu said, “It’s really going to be very important for us to learn a little bit beyond our Earth’s orbit and then take a big step when we go to Mars,” “and the Artemis missions enable us to have a sustainable platform and transformation system that allows us to learn how to operate in that deep space environment.” Through his words, we can learn the meaning of the Artemis program for humans. Also, he emphasized, “We’re working towards a sustainable programme and this is the vehicle that will carry the people that will land us back on the Moon again.” The Artemis program has great importance in humans space exploration. If the entire process is successfully fulfilled, it will be a significant indicator of humans’ space flight.

By Ki Dam-soo, cub-reporter  alstj6717@naver.com

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