NASA has released a new video showing the Lunar Gateway station in detail. The video offers a tour of the space station that will orbit the Moon starting with the Artemis IV mission in 2028.
The video demonstrates the various modules and systems on board the station, including a powerful solar panel that will provide energy to maintain orbit and ionize xenon for thrust. This will make the Moon Gate the most powerful solar power plant ever built.
The HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost) will command the spacecraft, provide communications with the Earth and the lunar surface, and support life support systems, simulators, and scientific payload banks. HALO was provided by the European Space Agency (ESA).
Another important element is the Lunar I-Hab, which provides environmental control and life support systems, including sleeping quarters, a kitchen and other necessary onboard systems. Lunar I-Hab was provided by ESA with the support of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA);
In addition, the Lunar Gateway will have other systems on board, such as a gateway system for crew and research, which will ensure a safe transition from the station’s interior to outer space. There will also be a refueling module to replenish energy and propulsion.
Lunar Gateway will be the first space station in lunar orbit where international teams of astronauts will live, work and prepare for missions to the lunar surface. The station will ensure a permanent human presence in space and serve as a springboard for future expeditions to Mars.
The video is available on NASA’s website and demonstrates how the space station will operate in lunar orbit, including life support systems and scientific research.
