NASA is using its Artemis program to prepare for future crewed missions to Mars by first testing technologies on the Moon. Unlike Apollo’s short visits, Artemis focuses on long-term stays and collaboration with global and private partners. The goal is to develop spacecraft, life-support systems, and operations that will support life beyond Earth.
Artemis 2, scheduled for 2026, will send astronauts around the Moon to test Orion’s life-support systems. Meanwhile, NASA is building the Gateway, a small station that will orbit the Moon, and managing cargo deliveries through its Deep Space Logistics office. On the surface, astronauts will experiment with drills, rovers, and other tools needed for extended missions. Many of these missions will target the lunar south pole, where frozen water and other resources are found. Harvesting ice could prove essential for sustaining life and planning future Mars missions.
The program also relies on partnerships through the Artemis Accords, involving industry and dozens of countries. However, challenges remain. The Artemis 3 landing, targeted for around 2027, depends on SpaceX’s Starship lander arriving on time. NASA also faces tight budgets and workforce losses. Still, Artemis aims to build a foundation for year-long journeys to Mars by first mastering longer missions on the Moon.
