NASA Seeks U.S. Companies to Partner on VIPER Lunar Mission, Focusing on Water Ice Exploration

NASA is now inviting U.S. companies to collaborate on the Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) mission, which was previously delayed due to budget issues. VIPER is designed to explore water ice deposits near the Moon’s south pole, with an initial project cost of $450 million. The mission was canceled in July 2024 due to cost-cutting measures, but NASA is now reopening the opportunity for private firms to help deliver the rover to the Moon, conduct exploration, and share scientific data. A final decision on the selected partners will be made in the coming months.

VIPER’s Role in Lunar Exploration
VIPER is designed to assist the Artemis program by locating potential water ice resources, which are essential for future lunar missions and operations. The rover was originally intended to be launched by Astrobotic Technology’s Griffin lander, but the mission was postponed. Now, following interest from private companies, NASA is considering new options for its deployment while ensuring the mission’s scientific goals remain intact.

Proposals and Selection Process
NASA has set a deadline of February 20, 2025, for interested companies to submit proposals. The selected candidates will then be invited to submit more detailed plans, with final decisions expected mid-year. NASA emphasized that while VIPER will be provided in its current form, modifications such as dismantling instruments for use on other spacecraft will not be allowed. The chosen companies will be responsible for managing landing operations, conducting scientific research, and ensuring data sharing.

Potential Benefits for Private Firms
Joel Kearns, Deputy Associate Administrator for Exploration in NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, stated that this partnership would offer significant opportunities for private firms to enhance their lunar surface capabilities. He stressed that VIPER’s deployment could mark a pivotal moment in commercial involvement in lunar exploration, reinforcing NASA’s commitment to fostering public-private collaborations.

Future of Lunar Resource Exploration
NASA aims to integrate private-sector capabilities into its lunar exploration efforts to reduce costs and broaden mission possibilities. As lunar resource utilization plays a crucial role in future space endeavors, the agency remains focused on achieving scientific goals while advancing commercial lunar operations. The selection of partners for VIPER will pave the way for future exploration and resource prospecting missions on the Moon.