NASA is making strides toward its goal of returning astronauts to the lunar surface as part of the Artemis program, unveiling significant developments regarding SpaceX and Blue Origin’s lunar landers. The timeline for upcoming milestones, outlined during a presentation at the International Astronautical Congress (IAC) in Antalya, Türkiye, marks key advancements for both companies.

Key Milestones in Development

On October 5, Steve Creech, acting manager of NASA’s Human Landing System (HLS) Program, detailed the critical milestones that will guide SpaceX’s Starship and Blue Origin’s Blue Moon as they prepare to support the Artemis initiative. By early 2028, crucial tests, including orbital refueling and uncrewed lunar landing demonstrations, are scheduled to determine the readiness of these vehicles to transport astronauts.

• Artemis III Mission: Targeted for Q3 2027, this mission involves sending four astronauts aboard NASA’s Orion spacecraft to low Earth orbit (LEO) for interoperability tests with both lunar landers.
• Artemis IV Mission: Expected to launch in early 2028, this will be the program’s first crewed lunar landing since 1972.

Vehicle Designs and Test Flights

SpaceX and Blue Origin have been hard at work refining their lander designs amidst various project delays. NASA’s updated structure for the Artemis program aims to maintain a steady cadence of uncrewed landings, with Artemis III redefined as a vehicle test mission. Both companies are set to execute a range of tests leading to a pivotal decision: which lander will enable the first crewed lunar landing in over five decades?

Recent achievements for SpaceX include successful tests of its Starship, which includes various planned objectives for 2026:

• Successful return and catch of its upgraded Version 3 booster.
• First Starship party for orbital refueling and preparation for its crew cabin.

Blue Origin’s Progress and Challenges

Blue Origin is guided by its commitment to its Blue Moon lunar lander, which stands at 52 feet (16 meters) tall and is equipped with three BE-7 engines. Progress includes:

• A mock-up of the lander prepared for astronaut training.
• Completion of critical design reviews and testing milestones required by NASA.

Challenges persist, especially surrounding the restoration of Launch Complex-36 and the New Glenn rocket following an explosion this past May.

Navigating the Road to Artemis IV

NASA’s plans remain steady, with October 2023 marked as a date for significant updates on program progress and future missions. The agency aims to maintain a launch date for Artemis III within a tight schedule, while both SpaceX and Blue Origin must showcase their vehicles’ capabilities ahead of Artemis IV.

As preparations intensify, upcoming milestones will be crucial in guaranteeing the overall mission success of NASA’s ambitious aim to establish a sustained human presence on the lunar surface.