On the moon, the bots will recognize one another, connect electronically and then assemble a panel that can generate energy.
Formalized in late 2022, Artemis also includes emerging space programs in countries such as Brazil, South Korea and Mexico.
The microbots will travel inside Peregrine, a lunar lander developed by Pittsburgh-based space robotics company.
Peregrine, the first private U.S. spacecraft to be launched as part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program, will also carry some 20 other NASA and commercial payloads.
The lander has been fueled and mated with the United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan Centaur rocket on the launchpad.
A launch during the Jan. 8-11 window would set up a landing as early as Feb. 23.
The lander will not go directly to the lunar surface, but rather enter the moon’s orbit and wait for the lighting to be correct for landing. »
