NASA Spent $450 Million on a Moon Rover. Now It’s Canceling the Mission.
New York TimesJul 20
Scientists Call for NASA to Go Ahead with Viper Moon Mission
Above: Apollo 17 astronaut Gene Cernan in 1972. Image copyright: Unsplash
The Facts
Thousands of scientists have written an open letter to the US Congress demanding NASA reverse its "unprecedented and indefensible" decision to cancel the $450M Viper lunar rover mission.
Last month, NASA announced the cancelation of the robotic Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rove (Viper) mission, citing delays to the launch date and cost overruns.
The Spin
Narrative A
NASA's shot themselves in the foot by canceling the Viper lunar rover mission. It was crucial to the potential discovery of water ice on the moon, a resource essential for long-term lunar exploration and habitation, and, in the shorter run, the Artemis program. A congressional intervention or partnerships with private firms could still save this vital project.
Narrative B
The Viper mission faced immense financial and logistical challenges caused by extended pre-flight testing requirements and supply chain issues. Though the space agency is committed to exploring the moon, continuing this project would have jeopardized other vital missions. The decision reflects NASA's need to balance goals with budget.