NASA has awarded $24 million in contracts to nine companies to study logistics for future human missions to the moon. These studies, part of the NextSTEP-2 program, aim to address gaps in NASA’s Moon to Mars Architecture, focusing on logistics carriers, surface cargo mobility, and trash management. Deputy Associate Administrator Nujoud Merancy emphasized the importance of these contracts for developing critical capabilities for the Artemis missions and supporting long-term lunar exploration. The studies are expected to conclude in about a year, offering solutions for the everyday needs of astronauts on the lunar surface. This initiative proceeds amid speculation about potential changes to the Artemis program under the Trump administration.
Related Posts
Palantir Expands AI-Powered Warp Speed Program to Six New Defense Customers
- Veiko Lukmann
- 14/03/2025
- 0
Palantir has announced six new customers for its Warp Speed AI operating system, designed to optimize manufacturing, fleet management, and maintenance. The new partners include Epirus, Red Cat, Saildrone, Saronic, Ursa Major, and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), expanding Warp Speed’s defense and aerospace applications. Originally launched in December 2024, Warp Speed enhances production, scheduling, and engineering management and is already used by L3Harris, Shield AI, Anduril Industries, and Panasonic Energy of North America. Palantir’s Head of Industrials Emily Nguyen emphasized that Warp Speed enables faster and more efficient defense production, crucial for keeping pace with evolving threats. Palantir plans to […]
First Polish F-35s depart Lockheed factory for pilot training work in Arkansas
- Veiko Lukmann
- 23/01/2025
- 0
Poland’s first two Lockheed Martin F-35As have departed Fort Worth, Texas, to begin pilot training at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas. This milestone marks Poland’s progress toward fielding a modern fighter force, with plans to operate 32 F-35As by 2030. Brigadier General Chad Bridges emphasized the significance of this event for Arkansas, the U.S., and its allies. The Ebbing base is expanding its capacity for F-35 Foreign Military Sales pilot training, complementing the current program at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. This development underscores the strengthening of Poland’s defense capabilities and its collaboration with the U.S. in […]
Finland Begins Construction of F-35 Engine Facilities
- Veiko Lukmann
- 18/03/2025
- 0
Finland has started building new facilities to assemble and maintain Pratt & Whitney F135 engines for its future fleet of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. The project, managed by the Finnish defense infrastructure agency Defense Properties, aims to support Finland’s integration into NATO’s airpower network. These facilities will enhance Finland’s ability to maintain and sustain its fleet domestically, reducing reliance on foreign maintenance hubs. The investment reflects Finland’s commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities amid growing regional security concerns. Once operational, the site will play a crucial role in supporting Finland’s long-term F-35 program. Original news