Washington:The US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has announced its intention to launch a nuclear-powered rover, named PROMISE, to the Moon's South Pole in 2028.
According to Emirates News Agency, NASA is advancing with the development of the PROMISE (Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping, and In-Situ Exploration). The six-wheeled rover is set to carry scientific instruments and technology demonstrations upon landing at the Moon's South Pole, with a targeted launch date in late 2028.
The PROMISE rover will be equipped with a drill designed to extract regolith, allowing for the study of ice and other resources on the lunar surface. The mission is expected to span 18 months. Additionally, NASA has contracted the US-based space company Blue Origin, founded by billionaire Jeff Bezos, with a $94 million agreement to deliver the PROMISE vehicle to the lunar South Pole.