Title: Astrobotic’s Peregrine Lunar Lander Set for Historic Mission to the Moon
Date: December 27, 2023
Astrobotic’s Peregrine lunar lander is preparing for its groundbreaking mission to the Moon as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. The lander has been encapsulated in the payload fairing of United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket ahead of its scheduled launch in early 2024.
This upcoming mission will mark the first commercial robotic expedition to the Moon’s surface under NASA’s CLPS initiative and the ambitious Artemis program, which aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface in the near future. The launch will take place from Launch Complex 41 at the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.
NASA, in collaboration with commercial partners, will utilize this lunar expedition to examine various aspects of the lunar surface. The Peregrine lander is expected to touch down on the Moon on February 23, carrying essential NASA payloads that will aid in the development of technologies and capabilities required for future human missions to the Moon.
Excitement surrounding this historic mission has prompted NASA to provide live launch coverage through multiple platforms. Viewers can tune in to NASA+, NASA Television, the NASA app, and the agency’s website to enjoy the prelaunch events, which kick off on January 4. The launch itself will be broadcast live on January 8, with audio-only options accessible via NASA’s “V” circuits.
To ensure inclusivity, virtual attendance options have been made available for those unable to physically witness the launch. Registered virtual guests will receive curated resources and mission-specific information to enhance their experience.
As the launch date approaches, several media briefings will be held to provide updates on the mission’s progress. An important science media briefing is scheduled for January 4, followed by a lunar delivery readiness media teleconference on January 5. These events aim to engage media professionals and keep them informed of the mission’s developments.
Social media users are encouraged to join in the excitement by following the mission updates using the hashtag #Artemis. This will enable users to stay connected with the latest news and connect with fellow space enthusiasts.
The Peregrine mission aligns with NASA’s commitment to regular lunar deliveries through the CLPS initiative and the Artemis program. While media accreditation for in-person coverage of the launch has already closed, additional information regarding media accreditation can be found online.
For any media-related inquiries, ULA’s communications department can be contacted for launch provider-related questions, while Astrobotic’s communication department will handle inquiries regarding the CLPS provider.
Additionally, NASA has provided contact information and relevant social media accounts for Spanish-language coverage to foster inclusivity and ensure a diverse range of audiences can be part of this momentous mission.
As the Peregrine lander readies for its groundbreaking journey to the Moon, scientists, engineers, and space enthusiasts eagerly await the knowledge and data it will gather, helping pave the way for humanity’s future explorations of our celestial neighbor.
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