NASA has announced ambitious plans to begin work on humanity’s first lunar outpost by the end of 2026. The project, part of the Moon Base initiative under the Artemis program, aims to create a long-term base near the Moon’s South Pole.
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman said construction activities will start this year with uncrewed missions. The first phase, running until 2029, will focus on testing technology, scouting landing sites, and delivering equipment. Blue Origin’s Blue Moon Mark 1 lander, named Endurance, is expected to carry the first payloads in autumn 2026.
Several companies are involved. Lunar Outpost and Astrolab will provide advanced rovers, while Firefly will send hopping drones to explore the area. These robots will search for water ice and other resources needed for future missions. The base is planned to grow across three phases, with early human habitation starting around 2029-2032.
The $20 billion project will include solar and nuclear power systems, habitats, and advanced mobility vehicles. NASA calls it “America’s and humanity’s first outpost on another celestial world.” The goal is to learn how to live and work on the Moon for longer periods and prepare for future trips to Mars.
