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NASA takes steps toward building Moon Base, including discussing a "perimeter"

Ars Technica Tuesday 26 May 2026, 21:03 UTC By Eric Berger 1 min read
Key Points

NASA has awarded contracts for the initial components of a lunar base, including two autonomous rovers. Astrolab and Lunar Outpost have been selected to build rovers, with delivery to the Moon anticipated in 2028. These rovers are expected to have a range of 200km and can operate both autonomously and with astronaut guidance.

NASA officials announced contract awards for the initial elements of a lunar base on Tuesday, including two rovers that will provide mobility to astronauts.

With the series of announcements, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman sought to maintain momentum around a Moon Base initiative revealed two months ago as part of the space agency's return to the Moon. "For those waiting patiently, the grand return is close at hand, and we will not slow down," he said.

The manager for the lunar base, Carlos Garcia-Galan, said the space agency had selected two companies, Astrolab and Lunar Outpost, to build approximately one-ton rovers that would be ready for delivery to the Moon in 2028. Astrolab will receive $219 million for its "CLV-1" rover, and Lunar Outpost $220 million for its "Pegasus" rover, building upon initial contracts awarded two years ago. Each rover is expected to have a range of 200 km and be capable of driving autonomously, with guidance from operators on Earth, in addition to being driven by astronauts.

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