The European Space Agency (ESA) signed a memorandum of understanding on October 27, formalizing its collaboration with NASA on the Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway, the upcoming outpost in lunar orbit.
NASA's Artemis program aims to return humans to the Moon by 2024. Central to this is the Lunar Orbital Platform-Gateway—a compact station one-sixth the size of the ISS—designed to act as a vital hub between Earth and the Moon. It will enable astronauts to stay on the lunar surface between missions, conduct scientific experiments, and potentially serve as a staging point for future Mars expeditions.
NASA recently contracted Northrop Grumman to design the HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost) module. Now, ESA has been awarded the contract for a larger second habitation module, where astronauts will reside during Gateway visits.
ESA is also developing the 'Esprit' logistics module, featuring an observation dome akin to the ISS's Cupola, offering stunning Earth views. This builds on ESA's ongoing partnership with NASA on the Orion spacecraft for crew transport to the Moon.
"Gateway will expand NASA's cooperation with international partners like ESA, ensuring the Artemis program delivers a safe and lasting lunar presence," stated NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine. In return, ESA gains three flight opportunities on the Gateway.
The first elements—the Power and Propulsion Element by Maxar Technologies and HALO—are slated for a joint launch in November 2023.
For Artemis III in 2024, it's unclear if astronauts will use the Gateway, as construction may be ongoing; they could transfer directly from Orion to the lander. Artemis IV's four-astronaut crew plans to dock, with two staying aboard while the others head to the surface.
