Space News Pod

As the countdown for the planned return of astronauts to the moon through NASA's Artemis program runs down to December 2025, looming uncertainties with the development of SpaceX's colossal Starship rocket pose potential delays. This possible setback stems from ongoing "difficulties" in the development of the Starship, a vehicle intended to transport a duo of astronauts to and from the lunar surface. NASA's Exploration Systems Development Mission Directorate's leader, Jim Free, voiced his worries on Wednesday, hinting at a probable shift of the schedule into 2026. "The current timeline for the first astronaut moon landing under the Artemis program, termed Artemis 3, is set for December 2025," Free expounded during the National Academies’ Aeronautics and Space Engineering Board meeting. He further conveyed apprehension over the challenges faced by SpaceX, which might push the deadline further. Before undertaking a lunar voyage, the Starship must first prove its capability for