Article 3: Lunar Exploration & Space Economy
Why in News: The NASA has unveiled a roadmap for sustained lunar presence alongside the upcoming Artemis II mission, signalling a new phase of space exploration.
Key Details
- Artemis II will send four astronauts around the Moon, marking the first human lunar mission since the Apollo Program era.
- NASA aims to establish a permanent human base on the Moon for long-term stays.
- The Moon is being developed as a launchpad for deeper space missions, including Mars.
- Increasing participation of countries like India, China, and Japan indicates a multipolar space race.
Artemis Programme & Evolution of Lunar Missions
- Shift from Exploration to Sustainability: Unlike Apollo missions focused on symbolic landings, the Artemis programme aims for long-term human presence, marking a transition from exploration to habitation.
- Phased Mission Architecture: Artemis I tested systems successfully, while Artemis II will carry astronauts around the Moon, followed by human landing missions planned around 2028.
- Return After Five Decades: The last human Moon mission was Apollo 17 in 1972, indicating a major technological and strategic revival after more than 50 years.
- Integration of Public–Private Partnerships: NASA is increasingly relying on private players like SpaceX and international collaborations, reflecting the commercialization of space.
Strategic Importance of the Moon
- Gateway to Deep Space Exploration: The Moon serves as a testing ground for technologies required for Mars missions, including life support systems and long-duration space travel.
- Resource Utilisation (ISRU): Lunar resources like water ice (for oxygen and fuel) can enable sustainable missions, reducing dependence on Earth-based supplies.
- Scientific Research Potential: The Moon provides insights into the early solar system, geological evolution, and space weathering processes.
- Geopolitical Significance: Establishing a lunar base enhances strategic dominance in space, similar to how maritime dominance shaped global power.
Permanent Lunar Base & Space Infrastructure
- Concept of Lunar Habitat: NASA plans a permanent base similar to the International Space Station, enabling continuous human presence.
- Regular Missions & Logistics: Missions are planned at six-month intervals, carrying astronauts, fuel, and equipment, ensuring sustained operations.
- Technological Requirements: Challenges include radiation protection, temperature extremes (-173°C to 127°C), and microgravity adaptation, requiring advanced engineering solutions.
- Use of Nuclear Energy: NASA’s plans for nuclear-powered propulsion (e.g., Space Reactor-1) could significantly enhance efficiency for interplanetary missions.
Changing Global Space Landscape
- From Bipolar to Multipolar Competition: Unlike the US-Soviet rivalry of the Cold War, space exploration now includes multiple actors like India, China, Japan, and private companies.
- India’s Growing Role: ISRO has emerged as a key player with missions like Chandrayaan-3 and plans for human spaceflight (Gaganyaan).
- Rise of Space Economy: The global space economy is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2040, driven by satellite services, exploration, and commercialization.
- International Collaboration: Initiatives like the Artemis Accords promote peaceful use of space, resource sharing, and global cooperation.
Challenges and Concerns in Lunar Exploration
- High Costs and Sustainability: Space missions involve massive financial investments, raising concerns about economic feasibility for developing countries.
- Space Governance Issues: Existing frameworks like the Outer Space Treaty (1967) lack clarity on resource exploitation and property rights.
- Environmental Concerns: Increasing missions may lead to space debris and ecological disturbance on celestial bodies.
- Technological and Human Risks: Long-duration missions pose risks such as radiation exposure, psychological stress, and system failures.
Conclusion
The Artemis programme signifies a shift from symbolic exploration to sustained human presence in space, positioning the Moon as a gateway to Mars and beyond. For India, this presents opportunities to strengthen its space capabilities, enhance international cooperation, and leverage the emerging space economy. A balanced approach focusing on innovation, sustainability, and global governance will be crucial in shaping the future of space exploration.
EXPECTED QUESTIONS FOR UPSC CSE
Prelims MCQ
Which of the following statements about the Artemis programme is correct?
(a) It aims only at robotic exploration of the Moon
(b) It seeks to establish long-term human presence on the Moon
(c) It is a joint mission of NASA and Roscosmos only
(d) It replaces the International Space Station
Answer: (b)
Descriptive Question
Q. “The Artemis programme marks a paradigm shift from exploration to habitation in space.” Discuss its significance for global space geopolitics and India. (250 Words, 15 Marks)