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TechCrunch
TechCrunch
4w ago 34 views

Blue Origin wins NASA deal to ferry VIPER rover to lunar south pole

Blue Origin has secured a NASA contract to deliver the VIPER rover to the lunar south pole, reviving the mission after previous delays.
Blue Origin wins NASA deal to ferry VIPER rover to lunar south pole
A What happened
On September 22, 2025, Blue Origin was awarded a NASA contract to deliver the VIPER rover to the lunar south pole, a significant development in lunar exploration. The contract, valued at around $190 million, allows the rover to finally reach the moon after previous delays and cancellations. VIPER, which stands for Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover, will be transported using Blue Origin's uncrewed Blue Moon MK1 lander. The rover is designed to drill into the lunar surface to assess the presence of water ice, which is vital for future human missions. This contract follows a previous cancellation of the VIPER program due to cost overruns and delays. The mission is scheduled for late 2027 and represents a critical step in NASA's plans for sustainable lunar exploration.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Significant NASA Endorsement

    This contract marks a major endorsement of Blue Origin's lunar exploration capabilities.

  • 2

    VIPER's Mission Importance

    VIPER's findings on water ice are crucial for future human presence on the moon.

Takeaways

The successful delivery of VIPER could pave the way for sustainable lunar exploration.