Jeff Bezos' Space Firm Blue Origin Grabs NASA Contract For A Lunar Mission

Looks like Jeff Bezos is still killing, but now it's not anymore in the ecommerce domains; instead, it is space this time. NASA has shortlisted Bezos's Blue Origin to carry out the first of three planned uncrewed lunar missions aimed at preparing for the construction of a moon base. NASA said in an official statement that the missions planned for 2026 are a part of a broader effort to establish a long-term human presence on the moon. NASA also stated that the project could eventually lead to a semi-permanent moon base as a part of the Artemis program. The announcement also showcases the growing rivalry between Elon Musk's SpaceX and Blue Origin.This Indian Startup Wants To Send Balloon 25 Km Above Earth By 2026 NASA administrator Jares Isaacman

also revealed the plans during a press conference in Wasington DC. Isaacman said the three uncrewed missions scheduled for 2026 would be followed by more than a dozen future missions to test technology, landers, and scientific systems. Isaacman said, 'People are looking up again, believing in big things again, and paying attention as America returns to the moon again, and this time to stay.'NASA also mentioned that Blue Origin will receive $230.4 million to support each of its first two missions. However, much of the project funding will come from the firm itself. The first mission, dubbed 'Moon Base One, ' could debut as early as fall this year. Moreover, Blue Origin's Endurance cargo lander will carry scientific payloads to the moon's south pole region.Isaacman also said that the mission would aid in demonstrating critical capabilities that minimise the risk for the human landing system missions. Blue Origin and SpaceX have both locked horns over providing crew landers for the future Artemis missions. And yes, NASA also announced smaller contracts for firms involved in lunar projects, comprising Firefly Aerospace and Lunar Outpost.