In fact, after Earth, the Moon could become humanity's next major destination. Space agency NASA has, for the first time on such a large scale, clearly indicated that preparations to build a permanent human base on the Moon are rapidly accelerating for the coming decade. What makes this project especially significant is that the base is expected to be built near the Moon's south pole, where scientists believe billions-of-years-old water ice may exist.

This mission is no longer limited to scientific research alone. NASA's new strategy clearly suggests that the Moon may eventually become not just a destination for missions, but also a center for human habitation, scientific research, and large-scale space operations. That is why space agencies across the world are closely monitoring the project.

Why Has the South Pole Become the Most Important Region?

According to recent reports, humanity is now moving closer to the possibility of living a more regular and sustainable life on the Moon. The Moon's south pole is considered very different from other regions. Some elevated areas there receive sunlight for extremely long periods, and NASA believes this could make it easier to generate electricity through solar energy.

On the other hand, the region also contains deep craters where sunlight never reaches. Scientists estimate that these permanently shadowed areas may contain large quantities of frozen water. In the future, this ice could be used for drinking water, oxygen production, and even rocket fuel. In other words, the two biggest challenges for long-term survival on the Moon - water and energy - may both be solved at the lunar south pole.

Not Just a Research Station, but a 'Mini Moon City'

NASA's plan is not simply to build a small station. The agency wants to create a network consisting of living quarters, research laboratories, energy systems, and rover operations spread across different sections. Scientists believe that no single location on the Moon can fulfill every requirement. Therefore, the base will be developed in multiple modules so that several missions can operate simultaneously.

This model could also become the foundation for future missions to Mars.

Special Drones to Be Sent in 2028

Before sending humans, NASA plans to send advanced drones and robotic systems to the Moon. In 2028, special small drones will be launched to study the south pole. Their job will be to collect data related to the surface, temperature, ice deposits, and safe landing zones. Based on this information, scientists will determine the safest location for future human settlement.

For this mission, American company Firefly Aerospace has reportedly received a contract worth around 75 million dollars.

A Robotic Fleet Will Arrive Before Humans

NASA is also preparing to send advanced rovers that can be remotely controlled from Earth. These rovers will transport essential equipment, map the terrain, and examine the lunar surface before actual construction begins.

Companies such as Astrolab and Lunar Outpost have received major contracts under the project. NASA aims to ensure that at least one advanced rover reaches the lunar south pole by the end of 2028.

The Mission Will Be Completed in Three Phases

NASA has divided the entire project into three stages.

The first phase will continue until 2029 and will focus on detailed exploration of the region and collection of critical scientific data.

The second phase, expected between 2029 and 2032, will involve building the initial infrastructure of the base. This includes energy systems, communication facilities, and robotic networks.

The third phase, after 2032, will focus on ensuring long-term human presence on the Moon. This means that, in the future, scientists may be able to live and work on the Moon for months at a time.

Could This Mission Change the History of Space Exploration?

Experts believe that if NASA succeeds in executing this plan, it could become one of the greatest space projects in human history. For the first time, humanity would move closer to establishing a permanent settlement beyond Earth.

According to specialists, the proposed lunar base would not only represent a scientific achievement, but also lay the foundation for the future space economy, lunar mining, and major deep-space missions, including journeys to Mars.