Experts reveal what NASA's $20 billion moon base might look like

A $20 billion lunar base is planned to provide humans with a first permanent outpost on the Moon by 2032. Early operations will use simple collapsible structures transported from Earth. As NASA’s presence becomes more permanent, the outpost will expand into a modular metropolis made from prefabricated units spread across a large area. Remote lunar habitats are expected to be self-sufficient, using materials carried over long distances and designed to protect inhabitants from extreme conditions. NASA’s approach includes up to 21 lunar landings from autumn 2026 to 2029 to deliver scientific equipment and robotic scouts, followed by human arrival from 2029 to 2032 to build infrastructure, habitation, and power, then full-time occupation in 2032 with regular crew rotations and resupply.

"Between autumn this year and 2029, the agency will oversee up to 21 lunar landings to deliver scientific equipment and robotic scouts. A fleet of MoonFall helicopter drones and uncrewed rovers will patrol the South Pole region, looking for sources of water and an ideal location for human settlement. Between 2029 and 2032, the first humans will start to arrive, establishing basic infrastructure, habitation, and power supplies. Finally, in 2032, NASA will move into the final stage of permanent occupation, establishing a full-time moon base with regular crew rotations and resupply landings."

Read at Mail Online