Scientists Call for NASA to Go Ahead with Viper Moon Mission

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Facts

  • Thousands of scientists have written an open letter to the US Congress demanding NASA reverse its 'unprecedented and indefensible' decision to cancel the $450M Viper lunar rover mission.[1]
  • Last month, NASA announced the cancelation of the robotic Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rove (Viper) mission, citing delays to the launch date and cost overruns.[2]
  • However, astronomers and astrophysicists from across the world have claimed the mission's cancelation 'undermines Nasa's entire lunar exploration programme for the next decade.'[1]
  • While the launch will happen as scheduled with a nonfunctional 'mass simulator,' the already built Viper — a wheeled, car-sized vehicle — is set to be disassembled.[3]
  • Last week, NASA solicited 'expressions of interest' from American companies and institutions in conducting a mission using the Viper's lunar rover.[4]

Sources: [1]Guardian, [2]NASA, [3]New York Times and [4]SpaceNews.

Narratives

  • Narrative A, as provided by The Hill. NASA's shot themselves in the foot by canceling the Viper lunar rover mission. It was crucial to the potential discovery of water ice on the moon, a resource essential for long-term lunar exploration and habitation, and, in the shorter run, the Artemis program. A congressional intervention or partnerships with private firms could still save this vital project.
  • Narrative B, as provided by Nasa. The Viper mission faced immense financial and logistical challenges caused by extended pre-flight testing requirements and supply chain issues. Though the space agency is committed to exploring the moon, continuing this project would have jeopardized other vital missions. The decision reflects NASA's need to balance goals with budget.

Predictions