NASA Moon Return Audit: Current Plan Falling Behind Schedule

A recent federal report has revealed that NASA’s ambitious plans to return astronauts to the moon by 2025 through the Artemis program may have been too optimistic. With multiple delays and ongoing challenges, it now appears that the earliest timeline for human return to the lunar surface is 2027.

Published on Thursday, the U.S. Government Accountability Office’s assessment indicates that NASA and its contractors have made progress, but they are still facing obstacles in the development of the human landing system and space suits. The report also highlights difficulties in the orbital testing of the SpaceX Starship rocket system, which is crucial for the moon mission.

The report suggests that NASA may have underestimated the timeline for the Artemis program, and that it is unrealistic to expect completion more than a year faster than the average for NASA major projects. Auditors also emphasized NASA’s reliance on third-party contractors for the program’s success.

Despite NASA’s efforts to accelerate the mission, the GAO report states that the Artemis III mission is likely to occur in early 2027 if development progresses at the average pace for NASA major projects. Furthermore, the space agency has requested $12.4 billion over the next five years for the lunar landing system and modernized space suits.

Following the recent successful completion of the Artemis I mission, NASA’s next phases of the Artemis program include testing the Orion space capsule with a four-person crew and the eventual return to the lunar surface, now estimated for 2027 at the earliest.

In addition to SpaceX, NASA is also partnering with Axiom Space to develop new space suits, while planning to establish a small space station in lunar orbit and eventually a moon base station.

NASA’s commitment to the Artemis missions extends beyond lunar visits, with a focus on scientific discovery, economic benefits, and inspiring a new generation of explorers. The agency’s long-term vision also includes plans for a human presence on Mars.