NASA prepares for three missions to the Moon, in search of data for a future human presence

NASA is preparing three new scientific missions to the Moon, with the aim of gathering data that could be important for a future human presence on the lunar surface.

The LEMS-SP, GIMLI and DISCO missions will focus on three main directions: studying conditions at the Moon’s south pole, exploring geological structures in Marius Hills and searching for ice in areas that lie in permanent shadow.

Studying the south pole

LEMS-SP will monitor conditions at the Moon’s south pole, gathering data on seismic activity, surface changes and the behaviour of lunar dust. These data could help assess the stability of the terrain and the risks that future human installations might face.

Marius Hills under study

The GIMLI mission will focus on Marius Hills, a geological formation thought to be linked to an ancient underground lava flow. Such structures are of interest to scientists, as they may offer natural protection from radiation, extreme temperatures and micrometeoroid impacts. They could potentially also serve as shelters for astronauts and scientific equipment.

The search for ice

The DISCO mission will search for ice deposits in “cold traps”, areas that lie in permanent shadow and where temperatures are low enough to preserve volatile substances. Through cameras and spectral instruments, the mission will study the extent of these deposits and their distance from the surface.

Lunar ice is considered an important resource for a sustainable human presence, as water can be used to produce oxygen and, potentially, fuel. The data gathered by these missions aim to help determine the most suitable areas for scientific research and, in the future, for creating permanent human infrastructure on the Moon.