NASA Cancels $450 Million VIPER Moon Rover Program Due to Budget Concerns
NASA cancels $450 million VIPER moon rover program due to budget concerns, saving $84 million. Despite termination, agency praises team’s work and commitment to exploration goals. Program may be repurposed for future missions or sold to industry.
NASA to Announce Rover Developer for Artemis Program
NASA will announce the company or companies chosen to develop the rover for its Artemis program of lunar exploration during a press conference on April 3 at 4 p.m. EDT. The two-person Artemis rover, officially known as the Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV), will aid astronauts in exploring the moon’s south polar region, with plans to establish a base in an area believed to contain abundant water ice. The LTV is designed to operate autonomously, allowing it to conduct scientific work during periods when crewed Artemis missions are not active.
NASA Conducts Successful Test Drives for Mini Autonomous Rovers Bound for the Moon in 2025
NASA’s mini autonomous rovers, part of the CADRE technology demonstration, underwent successful test drives at JPL in preparation for their 2025 moon mission. Equipped with solar panels and sensors, the rovers will map the lunar surface in 3D, showcasing the potential of autonomous robotic exploration in space.