Artemis III
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NASA: SpaceX, Blue Origin Submit Revised Moon Mission Proposals
SpaceX is addressing NASA’s concerns about potential delays in its lunar lander for Artemis III by proposing a “simplified mission.” This follows NASA’s hint at reopening the lunar landing contract to competition, possibly including Blue Origin. SpaceX claims their streamlined approach ensures a faster, safer lunar return. NASA is evaluating proposals from both SpaceX and Blue Origin to accelerate HLS production, driven by U.S. space leadership concerns amid China’s lunar ambitions. SpaceX’s Starship has undergone 11 test flights; in-orbit refueling remains a key challenge. NASA has paid SpaceX $2.7B for HLS development.
