NASA unveils Moon base contract stakes: SpaceX, Blue Origin join lunar gold rush

Eight companies eligible

The contracts are part of NASA’s commercial lunar program, which will draw on private companies to deliver scientific equipment, technology and infrastructure to the Moon’s south pole. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said the agency is building its Moon Base mission one mission at a time.

Contract values increase

Separately, Blue Origin received a $94 million base contract to deliver NASA’s nuclear-powered PROMISE rover. A performance-based option could add another $140 million.

Rover targets late 2028

The six-wheeled rover, whose full name is Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration, is designed to study the lunar surface and subsurface. Its work will include areas thought to contain water ice, which could help sustain a human presence on the Moon.

Blue Origin plans to use its Mark 1 lunar lander to carry the rover to the lunar south pole. NASA is targeting a launch in late 2028 for an 18-month mission.

Testing lunar logistics

SpaceX is expected to use its Starship rocket to deploy communications satellites in the region between Earth and the Moon in 2028. NASA says the demonstration could help develop networks linking astronauts, mission controllers and future lunar infrastructure.