LUNAR FIELD TRIPS: Space Exploration for Students

Go ahead, laugh. It is a funny, maybe hokey idea for today, but definitely NOT for tomorrow. The tomorrow, in this case, may be some years ahead, but for these field trips to become a reality we need to start planning for them today. So, in this context, even talking about it today is neither funny nor hokey.

The Moon-Base Prerequisite: Before we can even think of Lunar field trips for students we need to move ahead with plans for an International Lunar Research Base. This will be the site that will include the Lunar Student Training Facility (LSTF). It will support and conduct our proposed lunar field trips. A number of existing Lunar research organizations that support student involvement are expected to help operate the LSTF.

Getting it all connected: Additionally, in support of expanded solar system explorations we must intensify the research and development of space elevator technology for both Earth and the Moon. These elevators become key transport links that support both human and equipment transfers between the Earth, other planets in our solar system and our Moon. The key transfer vehicles that connects with the space elevators are super shuttles (link between Earth, Moon and nearby asteroids) and deep space vehicles (like a research spacecraft for Mars exploration).

Well, that is a lot of research and development. Yes, and those efforts not only advance our space sciences and technologies, but they provide an immense boost to our economy. Additionally, the entire concept of a Moon Base along with an education program brings the Earth's citizens into a greater appreciation of science and technology. This advance can only improve both our well being and our continuing evolution.

Some Field Trip Sponsors/Participanets: The following is a list of those we anticipate becoming potential co-sponsors of the program. This is not an all inclusive list. We are sure there are more. Please feel free to add your listing in our comments section of this blog.

• American Public University - Space Studies Program
• Challenger Center for Space Science Education
• Lunar Research Institute
• NASA space camps
• Sally Ride Science
• Space Explorers, Inc.
• Thornberg Center - Space Exploration
• Universities Space Research Association

A Climate Change for Science and Humankind: Nope this is not about global warming, this is about intellectual heating up. Setting and working toward goals like a Lunar Base and student program can incite an important rescue mission of American science and the science education of our young people. 

We must not let fear, superstition, spiritual misconceptions, political myopia, or an economic system that punishes most of us while rewarding only a few of us bar humankind's overall progress. Yes, we can back down, give up, become extinct and start the process of making Earth another dead planet. We have not evolved to this point to fail. We have evolved to this point to move forward breaking new ground across the universe. What a challenge, what an opportunity, and what a glorious reward for our efforts.

Let's go, lets take that next giant step for all humankind.

CREDIT:
Image of students at NASA facility, courtesy of NASA.

BACK TO THE MOON: A Real Back To The Future Expedition

Right now, as I look out my window, the full Moon is radiant. It casts a soothing light over the nearby river and shore. At the same time I cannot help but hear a long series of sighs and sobs as the Moon contemplates its place in future space exploration programs. With the cancellation of NASA's Constellation Program, the Moon was stuffed into the forgotten projects closet. Well, fortunately science and the persistence of NASA has not let the study and eventual long-term exploration of the Moon become forgotten. The motivating force behind this is WATER!


With NASA's successful launching of its LRO and LCROSS Moon exploratory spacecraft, interest in the Moon as an important first step into deep space was sustained. As we know these efforts were successful and water was detected on the Southern polar regions of the Moon. Not So claimed geo-scientists who insisted that the assessment of Moon rocks brought back by the Apollo astronauts indicated that water just could not exist on the Moon. WHAM, the closet door was slammed, but not locked. Just this week (the week of October 17, 2010) NASA scientists refuted those "no water" findings by providing clear evidence from the LCROSS impact analysis that water does exist in the polar regions of the Moon.

We Shall Return!

Inspired by these improved analyses and other research results NASA's Lunar and Planetary Institute has contracted with a commercial vendor to develop and deploy a robotic system to visit the Moon and further analyze both polar regions for water and methane. One of the key objectives is to fully certify that the discovered water can be processed to support both the astronauts and operations of an extended lunar expedition. The next step into deep space may now be back into play. To understand why a return to the Moon is such a vital step, we suggest you review an earlier blog article that addresses some of these important issues. You may click here to review that article.


Yes, I am repeating arguments that have already been expressed by many. Regardless, these are valid arguments and demand serious consideration by our scientific and political leaders. There is NO argument that the exploration of Mars is important, but to make that effort the most successful and scientifically fulfilling we must first return to our Moon to learn all that it awaits to teach us.It is a virtual history book of the evolution of our solar system and especially of our planet Earth. Additionally, it holds many vital secrets that will help us to fully understand what happened on Mars that erased what may have been an evolving life. Lets not allow impatience and overeagerness to blind us to critical details that will expand our understanding of solar systems in general and specifically how we got here within this galaxy and within this universe. So, lets literally "go back to the future" by launching a full, long-term exploration of our Moon.




CREDITS:
Sad Moon Cartoon by natalja1 from Science Blogs > http://bit.ly/bx5YhG
Actual photo: Apollo 11 Lunar Lander with Astronaut. Courtesy of NASA and Apollo Project.

NOW GET THIS STRAIGHT, MOON! This Is NOT Goodbye!

Yes, we know we had beautiful plans to return and stay and learn from you. The plans were ample, but the funds were anemic! So now we are being forced to skitter around a bunch of asteroids when we could be gaining valuable lessons by being with you. Yes, we are discouraged but not defeated. There is so much you have to offer, and there is so much we need to learn from you before we dash off to Mars. In fact, the last thing we need to do is dash anywhere. Dashing usually leads to big pratfalls where nobody laughs. We don't need that.

Right now, one of our most valuable assets; our engineering skills and innovation, are being more misdirected than directed. We are flexible and can easily take all the good stuff we have already developed in our Moon program and mix it up, and come out with a realistic solution that will save money and make exploration progress. To get to this we need to have scientists and engineers deciding our program, not politicians and the appointees who listen with their wallets instead of their brains and hearts.To get started we need to speak out now in these few remaining days. We must do this before we elect more wallet-eared politicians who have little or no vision. Vision is all that can carry us forward and bring us back to greater economic and social strength. We must NOT take NO for an answer.

Yep, this is a political commentary and the spirits of every explorer throughout history who has had to reckon with the same stammering politics that never serve anyone but the politicians are at our side. Our goals are to serve all of us, and we cannot do that unless we first graduate from your school. Some see this as a delay, we see it as the NEXT STEP FORWARD. It is a vital step and to ignore it or try to move around it can set us back not ahead.

We are like energy, locked in useless vibrations, that is really going nowhere. To break free, we must come together with a strong loyalty to space exploration and our Moon program as the next best move forward. With the advances in propulsion systems chafing at the bit, we need to extend their development so that our travels from LEO to you are only an hour or two away.  This proximity insures that the exchange of data, researchers and new development between the Moon and Earth is realistic and timely. All of this sharpens our readiness for our visits to more distant planetary bodies; including Mars.  It also means that our commercial space friends have a solid set of goals to achieve and sustain that will more quickly enable all of our current space exploration goals and begin the building of a new space economy.

So Moon, we have not forgotten you. WE WILL BE BACK! The harder we work at making this happen the sooner it will happen. Meanwhile, be courteous to your Chinese, Indian, and Russian visitors as they too see your great value to all our space futures.

CREDIT:
Moon close up image taken from total astrophotograph by Waddell Robey (c) Waddell Robey and Slooh,com

NO DILEMMA: TO BOLDY GO..or..TO WISELY GO..WHERE?

Desert Rats Testing Lunar Rover - NASA

I love that Star Trek goal, but we are not yet at the trekkie level of space exploration. Shameful? Good grief, no! If all we needed were dreams and imagination then yes we would be there, but dreams and imagination are just incentives. We need hard, realistic science, engineering and new technology to materialize those visions. Right now, we are sort of stumbling and to prevent a serious fall, we need to focus. In our opinion the prime focus should be a return to the Moon. Why?

We have discussed some of the reasons in an earlier blog entitled, Been There, Done That..., but it is time to amplify the reasons and to point out that our return to the Moon is a vital and essential first step to our exploration of the planet Mars and other members of our solar system.

• Despite our ongoing satellite and robotic testing as well as our ISS experience, we need to evaluate extended human exposure to low gravity, low atmosphere and high and variable cosmic rad environments to perfect our safe habitat and spacesuit designs. We need to do this on a planetary body (the Moon) that is close to Earth and therefore more quickly accessible for extra support or even emergency evacuation with a reasonably quick return to Earth.
• Many of the geologic explorations that we can perform on the Moon are not just a preface to our efforts on Mars, but will present us with vital data on the solar system's formation that will definitely benefit our understanding of conditions on Mars and other planetary bodies within our solar system.
• The construction and utilization of a Moon Base habitat will evaluate these designs with the overall goal of a standard design suitable for Mars and perhaps other planetary bodies, including other moons. If design changes are necessary, they can be more readily evaluated on the Moon where access is faster and less expensive. The idea here is when we do set out for Mars, we do so with more answers than questions and experienced preparations for both the journey and extended human operations on that planet.
• In line with the first item above, all of these planetary bodies are hostile. We need to gather as much data and acclimation to this kind of setting before venturing further out into the solar system. In fact it is highly possible that our Moon will be more hostile in many ways than Mars. Our preparation for that situation certainly arms us to handle Mars with more assurance and skill.
• Geological, geophysical and geochemical analysis of the Moon will inform us about many features that we will find common on other non-gas-giant planetary bodies. Finding this out at a convenient location and then making necessary adjustments to our deep space plans increases both our success and safety on Mars and its moons.
• Although we will be able to view Earth from Mars (with telescopic help) our view of Earth from the Moon will greatly enhance our global efforts to preserve and protect Earth's vital environment. Yes, this is more emotional than logical, but highly valuable as an important incentive. For years to come, Earth will be our key operational base, wherever we go, and if we let it decay through our negligence we directly endanger both the success and scope of our entire deep space exploration plans.

So we not boldly go? Well we always go into space exploration boldly and bravely, but we should never go blindly. The above observations and suggestions improve the chance that we would never venture into the unknown, unawares. We then should go boldly and wisely? Of course, and again we always strive to do so, but as experience has shown us, some of our wisdom is acquired in process rather than before hand. This is a solid justification for going to the Moon first.  There will be moments of acquired wisdom, just as we had on our first exploration of the Moon. This time we will use all of that past experience to further extend our ability to meet the unexpected effectively and safely. Doing this on a Moon exploration program will definitely increase our success when, wiser and bolder we then move on to Mars.

Lastly, we currently have a sense of urgency because we are facing a severe cutback of our exploration goals. Deciding on a well researched and designed Moon Base program could allow us to get back on track. Additionally, by recognizing that what we accomplish on the Moon will enrich our efforts on Mars, makes it all worthwhile and refreshes our focus. Anxiety is replaced by purpose and sound planning. Eagerness is channeled productively rather than remaining an itch that irritates when it should motivate.

Yes we will go to Mars, and when we go, we will be better prepared, and wiser. Therefore.we go with great confidence that our boldness and courage are never misdirected or unsuccessful.

CREDITS:

Image of the new Moon/Mars Rover and the Desert RATS crew. Image courtesy of NASA.

A TRIP TO THE MOON ZOO

Astronaut Gene Cernan checks out the Moon Rover (LRV) before taking off for an exploratory ride. He is at and on the Moon and a contributor to the Moon Zoo through samples and photographs. All of the Apollo astronauts who made the trip to the lunar surface have contributed to the Moon Zoo. If you are an advocate for returning to the Moon for a longer stay and for more detailed research, then you are encouraged to be a regular visitor and participant at the Moon Zoo

Not sure where you are here in this image? Well a visit to the Moon Zoo will help you find out, but additionally this is an image from the Lunar Lander of the Apollo 10 CSM and Mount. Marilyn on the Moon.. Mount Marilyn was named by Astronaut Jim Lovell. In the image on the right, it is in the upper left section of the picture.

Being active at the Moon Zoo and helping out in the detection and annotation of Moon craters and mounds helps in our understanding of our Moon. It will also more fully equip you with the knowledge to become an even more effective advocate for our next exploratory mission to the Moon. While you are at it, please also consider joining the Moon Society and completing the certificate course. You will really be on your way to becoming a lunar expert.

In this last image, which we have entitled "GOING UP" we show the very last Saturn V launch of Apollo 17 which ended the human exploration of the Moon.  We need to go back there, and begin to really understand that lunar environment which in turn will teach us a great deal more about Earth and the solar system.  There is great history and many resources waiting for us up there.

If you would like to review and download (with credit to NASA) any of the many great images from the Apollo mission and more you should visit the Project Apollo Image Gallery. You will be inspired and your advocacy for more lunar research and exploration will receive a terrific boost.

Can you hear and feel the power of that mighty Saturn V?  I can.

CREDITS:
All images in this blog issue are courtesy of NASA and can be found at the Project Apollo Image Gallery. Special thanks also goes to those courageous astronauts who took most of the photographs.

ARE WE THERE YET? The Hope For Moon Missions and Our Future.

Subsurface Lunar Research Station

The next step in any joint venture space programs is, in my opinion, the move toward creating what the Moon Society has defined as the International Lunar Research Park. The image on the left is just one example of artists concepts of what a long-term lunar base will look like.Until we have a better confirmation on what amount of water there really is and where it is on the Moon, we won't really know what the Moon Base will shape up to be.

What does matter right now, particularly since NASA has been required to delay or even set aside any lunar mission, is that we begin to consider an international program, including NASA, that may succeed in a more recent return to the Moon.

There have been many, brief exploratory visits to the Moon, including NASA's famed and successful Apollo program. Smattering amounts of data have been collected, but considering that all efforts have been limited in both scope and duration, it's considered that the data remains incomplete and potentially inconclusive. This data limitation also should include any current reports on the actual presence of water on the Moon and its whereabouts.In essence we are presently in what we could call and educated-guess stage of lunar exploration.

As we have stated in previous issues of this blog, the United Nations' Open Space Treaty precludes any one nation from making national claims on the Moon or any other planetary body in our solar system. It is, therefore, wise to consider a joint Moon exploration program that represents international interests and essentially conforms to the plan submitted by the Moon Society. The challenging issue remains as: how do we get together and get started on devising an international lunar program?  The leaders of Earth's nations remain egocentric and thus mold their citizens into national egocentricity. What will it take to break the ice and bring us together?

The basic premises that produced the agreements and cooperation that has resulted in the International Space Station should be our startup roadmap  It is essential that those nations that support the ISS should be the ones to kick off an international lunar research program. Do we only consider that because a limited assay of the lunar material brought back by the Apollo program indicates the Moon is dry? Can we be sure, or do we initiate further LCROSS type research and clearly establish the presence of water? Most importantly, do we just sit around and argue about it or do we do something to substantiate whether there is either water or the chemical substances that will support water formation on the Moon?

Individual nations are going to be sending more spacecraft to the Moon.This is, in our opinion, a gross waste of time and resources governed by that national egocentricity. There is just no room in our investigations of our solar system for that type of thinking or political autonomy. The Moon Base program can be a breakthrough move to further the unique international cooperation that is represented by the ISS. The opportunity and challenge awaits us.Are we mature enough, internationally, to move forward in this respect? Do we realize the setbacks we will experience as a civilization if we do not? Do our respective leaders care? Do we care?

Again it comes down to whether we as a civilization place more value on warfare rather than spacefaring.Our future and our continuation as one of the universe's existing civilizations depends on our ability to make this vital shift. Oh, by the way, it also produces world peace.

So, are we there yet?


CREDIT:
The above image of a sub-surface Moon Base comes from Out of the Cradle and the Lunar Library LLC. You are encouraged to go here to learn about this organization's "25 Good Reasons To Go To The Moon"

OK, SO WHO OWNS THE MOON?

The answer is, we all do.  The United Nations Outer Space Treaty stipulates that:

1. The exploration and use of outer space shall be carried out for the benefit and in the interests of all countries and shall be the province of all mankind;
2. Outer space shall be free for exploration and use by all States
3. Outer space is not subject to national appropriation by claim of sovereignty, by means of use or occupation, or by any other means
4. The Moon and other celestial bodies shall be used exclusively for peaceful purposes.

The above are just selected items within the treaty. To view the entire treaty and other related United Nations space-related treaties go here (see the Index on the left and click on Treaties and Principles). The United States is a signatory of the Outer Space Treaty and ratified it in 1967.  You can also use a search tool to find any or all other nations that have signed and, especially, ratified the treaty.

The question or concern remains as to how close we all are to adhering to the full provisions of that treaty?  This is particularly applicable to the prospects of private corporations from the United States and other spacefaring nations sending exploratory spacecraft onto the Moon and extracting data and/or materials that are not shared globally. Of equal concern is the establishing of any Lunar base of operations that does not hold an international charter under the provisions of the Outer Space Treaty.  In other words can a private entity set up exclusive profit making operations on the Moon or for that matter any object (including Near Earth Objects) in our solar system?

The United States is a member and provides representation on the UN Committee For the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space. It is within this committee of the UN's overall Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA)that issues such as those listed above would be presented, discussed and acted upon.

Because the press is pretty indifferent to the United Nations and its activities (unless there is some criticism) there is a lot that goes on that receives little or no media attention. An example, is the many visits that Astronaut Russell Schweickart has made to UNOOSA to present proposed measures and legislation that will globally address both the threat of Near Earth Objects, and the need for coordinated international plans for detection and deterrence of NEOs.  I know I have never read anything about this, but a recent interview of Astro Schweickart by Talking-Space clearly pointed out Schweikart's efforts on behalf of humankind.  You may access that interview here.

The entire idea of our spacefaring activities becoming a full-fledged global endeavor is exciting, and in my opinion a significant forward step toward world peace.  How totally exciting, fulfilling and rewarding it would be if all that surrounds us becomes truly a domain for peace.  Humankind would grow, prosper and most likely, enjoy many, many meet-ups with fellow residents of this place we call universe.

MOON RIVERS, OR ?

Image: frm News Around The Globe

Yeah, some refer to me as a moldy oldy, but regardless I boldly continue to enjoy 50s-80s music. One of those is most appropriate for this blog entry. It is "Moon River." The fact that I live right on the shore of a lovely river further supports both my music choice and belief that there is water on our Moon.


In the Fall of 2009 NASA announced that they had found a considerable amount of water on the Moon. This report came as a result of the successful flight of the LCROSS spacecraft which nose-dived into a selected area in the South polar region of the Moon. This was an exciting announcement that promised increased scientific attention to the Moon's geological history. That history is also a key marker in the history of our planet and our solar system.  Moon explorers were also encouraged because the discovery gave a hint of possible water resources to support a sustained human exploration of the Moon.


In June of this year, Reuters news service reported on the findings of the National Academy of Science which stated, "We found that the minimum water content ranged from 64 parts per billion to 5 parts per million -- at least two orders of magnitude greater than previous results."


Just less than two months later, the publication Wired Science reports that scientists that have been studying the Moon rocks returned from the Apollo missions indicate that because of the absence of Chlorine 35, which is directly related to the presence of Hydrogen, that there is no water on the Moon! There is no disputing the assays that were performed and their relevance to the chemical necessities required to support the presence of water.  Fortunately not all researchers are yet ready to fully agree that this latest analysis is representative of the water retention capabilities of the entire Moon.  


This is what is so encouraging and delightful about scientific research. It is what I call learned disputations that often help to eventually form real theory or scientific fact.  In the case of water on the Moon, I would think we need more samples, and also direct human exploration of the Moon.This must include drilling down into the deeper recesses of our lovely satellite.


There is some worry that the latest scientific findings will further discourage extended human exploration of the Moon.That decision would exclude the creation of a permanent Moon base. Moon exploration supporters will, I believe, move to point out that the latest results are important, but inconclusive and rather than serve to discourage further exploration, they promote the need for more extensive "on-site" research.


In time we will find that comets impacted our Moon and in that event they contributed to the currently hidden water resources on it. In my opinion, we have exhausted robotic investigations. It is time to start building our Moon base and getting on with a full human exploration. Shoving human exploration onto a back burner denies the processes of sound scientific research. We should not do that and should follow the ideas proffered by the Moon Society in developing and implementing an International Lunar Research Park. Are you ready?

MOON SCIENCE, AN INTERNATIONAL COMMITMENT.

The following is a direct quote from the NASA Lunar Science Institute's (NLSI) mission statement:

1. "carrying out and supporting collaborative research in lunar science, investigating the Moon itself, and using the Moon as a unique platform for other investigations,"
2. "providing scientific and technical perspectives to NASA on its lunar research programs, including developing investigations for current and future space missions,"
3. "supporting development of the lunar science community and training the next generation of lunar science researchers; and,"
4. "supporting Education and Public Outreach by providing scientific content for K-14 education programs, and communication directly with the public."

Those four major tasks are certainly more than just a passing notice of the scientific importance of getting to know our Moon better and more fully.  It is a positive indicator that planetary scientists recognize the valuable contribution Lunar studies will make toward our understanding of our solar system.  The idea of a Moon Base is included in those mission plans and in actuality propose a practice that closely parallels the concept of an International Lunar Research Park proposed by the Moon Society.

NSLI is already living up to its commitment for an international representation on its staff. Currently the scientific staff membership includes scientists from Canada, Korea, United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. The list of foreign partners will continue to expand as additional scientists join NSLI.  This commitment to an international research effort clearly and officially recognizes that the Moon belongs to all humankind and is not the unique possession of any one nation.

The LADEE project: An imminent mission is the launching of an investigative spacecraft to examine the lunar atmosphere and dust environment with the project acronym LADEE. The planning calls for a launch schedule for the year 2011. The purpose is to gather basic environmental data before it is disrupted by increased and extended human operations on the Moon.  The spacecraft is planned as an orbiter rather than a rover.

Want to learn more? Visit the NSLI website here, and also you can elect to directly address questions to a Lunar Scientist.  Most importantly as you can see, the Moon is not a forgotten mission objective, despite current political decisions.  We all have a responsibility in this regard to not let NSLI lapse into Moon dreams by being advocates for its programs and for full WhiteHouse and Congressional support of the international exploration of the Moon.

MOONSCAPE 2020

By the year 2020, somebody will be on the Moon. It may be just a few robots, or it may be the initial landing of the first Moon-base-creation team. They could be speaking one or more of several languages, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, but not English. This, at least, is the way it looks right now as far as the continued exploration of our Moon. It is our opinion this is dreadfully wasteful of international resources. We could also be looking at the national ego effect that pushes away each space oriented nation from participating in a program such as the International Lunar Research Park ( ILRP)

Yes, as many private space interests have expressed, there will be industrial ventures on the Moon. The challenge is that those ventures should be within the context of an international governing body that insures that the Moon's resources and habitat are properly protected and that no single private entity controls industrial access at the expense of other nations. The Moon, after all, is a global property and must be openly and carefully shared. These issues introduce the question as to why the United States remains uninvolved since it, until recently, was the world's leading space science nation? Again, it is our opinion that the United States should have been the front-runner in helping UNOOSA foster the ILRP concept.

Scientists are confirming that there is more water on the Moon that was originally suspected. This further encourages a carefully planned and staffed international research effort.  For this to be realized the United States needs to get fully involved again and rethink its space exploration strategies.  Sure exploring asteroids have striking benefits that may also have great industrial potential, but these are intermediate objectives and should take second place to a grand international exploration strategy.

Earth views as seen from the Moon will begin to give us both inspiration and solid science that will further global efforts to protect and sustain our home planet.  Certainly, as this video displays, we have lots of LEO views of our planet, but we need to have the kind of observational research that a lunar observatory would provide.Additionally, there is a strong psychological imperative that develops as we observe our planet from the Moon.  This is an imperative that just does not fully develop from our monitoring of satellite imagery.

At this point what will it take over the next decade to redirect America's efforts toward both Moon exploration and the direct development and support of an international research program?  If we let our valid but diverse public and civil space exploration interests disperse our focus we stand to fall further behind in our role in global space exploration. This will seriously jeopardize the measured and productive research of our solar system; beginning with our Moon. So wake up, get up, and join up and speak out. Now, if you please.

CREDIT:
Satellite imagery from the Clementine Project of the Moon's North Pole.

THE TOGETHERNESS STRUCTURE: UNOOSA

In a previous blog article, we talked about the Moon Society and its goal for an International Lunar Research Park. We need to balance this with broader international goals such as those proposed by the United Nations Office of Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).  A key indicator of their activities to stimulate the application of space sciences for the betterment of humankind is contained in their publication "Space Solutions For The Worlds Problems".  In our ongoing concentration on our own exploration goals, including a Moon Base, we should, actually must, coordinate those plans within the UN structure.

Well now, the above comment seems to defy our earlier call for a Global Space Congress.  Actually we think, if anything, it underscores the importance of a working interrelationship to strengthen both UNOOSA and a new entity such as the GSC.  Yes, the UN does get tied up in its legislative processes, and the concept of the GSC seeks to work around those delays.  This does not mean that the two entities are in opposition or uncooperative.  It is better to view the GSC as the action body of UNOOSA's deliberative and legislative actions. For any of this to work, both organizations would need to structure and re-structure themselves to be responsive and mutually supportive.  Can it work. We think it can, but the first move is for more civil and private organizations to become more familiar with UNOOSA and its workings, and for UNOOSA to broaden its scope of understanding of both national and international goals regarding space exploration.

Right now, we are a long, long way from becoming a space faring world civilization. UNOOSA's efforts of linking the space sciences and space exploration to the benefiting of troubled areas of this planet, reinforces our efforts to create such a society.  If the GSC comes into existence, it should pledge full commitment to supporting the UN's space related programs.  It is a totally win, win cooperative evolution.

GETTING IT TOGETHER: THE ILRP !

Don't despair over the initials in the title.  They were put there intentionally;hopefully to pique your interest. ILRP stands for the International Lunar Research Park, a concept being developed and promoted by the Moon Society.  The following is a direct excerpt from the Society's website about the ILRP:

• "The Moon Society has been developing the concept of an International Lunar Research Park. A site would be prepared by a contractor or consortium of contractors who would build facilities needed by all the national agency participants: space port, power production, power storage, warehousing systems, repair facilities, a fleet of different types of vehicles and rovers for lease. By sharing these things, individual national lunar outposts can just plug in, and spend all their man hours doing the research they came to do. Academia and enterprise and even tourist facilities would be welcome. This is just the sort of outpost that could morph by expansion over time into the first true frontier town. This is a somewhat different formula for International cooperation than that which underlies the International Space Station where NASA is host and boss. In an ILRP, the principal contractor would be the host, national space agencies would be tenants or lessees."

This concept is such an organized idea of the international cooperation which we think is absolutely essential for all future space explorations (solar system and beyond).  We encourage you to explore this concept more fully by visiting, and hopefully joining, the Moon Society.

Even if you are not ready to join up, we urge you to consider increasing your special knowledge about Luna by acquiring the Moon Society's Lunar Study and Observation Certificate

ALL ABOUT ACCESS, HONORS AND SOVEREIGNTY

A review of the global history of human exploration clearly shows that those events were nationally inspired and supported with the exception of some outstanding individual ventures. Credit, or discredit, went to the country that supported the exploration program. This is also the case, to date, in our space exploration accomplishments with some very notable exceptions (NASA, ESA, JAXA ROSCOSMOS,, etc. combined projects) that include the International Space Station.

Our view is that future space exploration programs that involve our solar system and beyond should become, as much as possible, international efforts with full participation by as many nations as possible. Our previous blog post about a Global Space Congress (GSC) addresses this concept in more detail. It is anticipated that even within a global network there will be many single nation missions to explore deep space, and especially our Moon and some Near Earth Objects (asteroids and comets).

A major benefit to this arrangement is the establishment of a set of protocols that govern the exploration missions whether by an individual member country or a multi-national mission. The critical benefit, however, is a complete sharing of discoveries and data with all members of the GSC.  Additionally, no single member country, can claim sovereignty over all or part of an explored space object (planet, moon, asteroid).  Sovereignty always rests with the GSC.

Will the development of exploration protocols be a long and arduous task? We believe that will not be the case because there exists some excellent protocols that were created to govern the international exploration of Earth's South Pole region (Antarctica) as well as the Space Exploration protocols that have been developed by the United Nations (UNOOSA) The set of protocols for international exploration of the poles is contained in the ANTARCTIC TREATY.

Because the focus of this blog is on the exploration and development of a Moon Base, we envision an extraction of guidelines from the above two international protocols that would comprise the LUNEX Protocols that would govern the Moon Base Apollo program.  We believe this is necessary to give full consideration to eventual commercial ventures on the Moon and to insure that all member nations of the GSC and their commercial interests have full representation under the Lunex Protocols.  These special protocols would also attend to the need to preserve and protect what we term Moon Aesthetics.


Well, this would appear to be a sound approach, but seems to ignore the existence of the United Nations space programs.  We emphasize here that they are not being ignored, rather we envision extracting the entire structure away from the UN and into the structure of the GSC.  We urge this because the UN by design and nature can be too cumbersome in its response to the many issues that can arise in the full arena of space exploration.  Many of these issues will be very critical and possibly life threatening in nature and will require quicker and more effective reactions to those needs.  We see the GSC as the optimum application of that approach.

In summary, all of this is about relating all matters that pertain to space exploration to a global vision that clearly includes all citizens of planet Earth. As such this is a vital beginning to the ongoing evolution of humankind and the creation of a global space society. The mission, the hope, the goal is that we, the people of planet Earth go forth and explore in peace and with unity of purpose.

CREDITS:
Image: Apollo 9: EVAs by Astros Schweickart and Scott. Scott is shown exiting the CM. Schweickart started his spacewalk from the LM.  Photo courtesy of NASA.

Antarctic Treaty:  We wish to acknowledge the suggestion about the Antarctic Treaty that came from a fellow SpaceTweep(@fizzvicc) on Twitter.  It is an excellent approach that uses an existing and well respected treaty as a model. Thank You.

A PAUSE TO REFLECT

"The Moon is, above all, a witness to 4.5 billion years of solar system history, and it has recorded that history more completely and more clearly than has any other planetary body. Nowhere else can we see back with such clarity to the time when Earth and the other terrestrial planets—Mercury, Venus, an Mars—were formed and life emerged on Earth."  The forgoing statement is taken directly from the National Academies of Science report by its Committee on the Scientific Context for the Exploration of the Moon.  You may view and download a free copy (pdf) of the full report here.

The report was the outcome of a study that examined the value and scientific feasibility of a return to the Moon and associated robotic and human exploration activities.  This study was directly related to the then (2007) White House and NASA goals under the Vision For Space Exploration (VSE).  The VSE remained an active and ongoing program until its recommended cancellation by the Obama Administration.  At this point in time (June 2010) the United States Congress is still debating the legality and feasibility of the cancellation of what is known as the Constellation Program.

There are other sections in this report as well as additional NAS reports that we will quote as well as provide links that will further substantiate both the scientific validity and urgency for a full-scale Moon research program.  It is our opinion that the eventual establishment of a fully functional Moon Base will be the best way to accomplish all the scientific goals enumerated in the above report. Yes we will certainly venture forth throughout our solar system, but the information and science that we acquire on the Moon will better prepare us to fully evaluate our planetary neighbors and their histories.  It will also allow us to develop, in close proximity to Earth, the practices and procedures that insure that we do so safely and successfully.

The diagram on the right is taken directly from the referenced report and clearly shows the interrelated scientific issues that a Lunar Research Program would address.  To ignore this for the sake of some intermediary, Earthbound (Low Earth Orbits) program (other than the ongoing ISS program) is to further delay the essential investigations that our overall goals for deep space exploration demand.

In its Executive Summary, the report outlines eight key scientific concepts that should mandate a dedication exploration of the Moon.  Those concepts are as follows:

"1. The bombardment history of the inner solar system is uniquely revealed on the Moon.
2. The structure and composition of the lunar interior provide fundamental information on the evolution of a differentiated planetary body.
3. Key planetary processes are manifested in the diversity of lunar crustal rocks.
4. The lunar poles are special environments that may bear witness to the volatile flux over the latter part of solar system history.
5. Lunar volcanism provides a window into the thermal and compositional evolution of the Moon.
6. The Moon is an accessible laboratory for studying the impact process on planetary scales.
7. The Moon is a natural laboratory for regolith processes and weathering on anhydrous airless bodies.
8. Processes involved with the atmosphere and dust environment of the Moon are accessible for scientific study while the environment remains in a pristine state."


What is so clearly obvious here is that a structured and sustained Lunar research program provides us vital information not just about our own planet and its satellite, but a great deal about the evolution of our entire solar system.  This is sound and solid information that we should have and digest well before venturing forth blindly into deep regions of our solar system.  Therefore, we should pause and reflect upon the manifold benefits of a full scale Moon exploration program, and quickly move to get our space sciences back on tract.

CREDITS:
Moon Image: Astrophotograph by Waddell Robey through telescopes of the Slooh,com network. (c)02/12/2009
Lunar Science Diagram: from the NAS report from the Committee On the Scientific Context for the Exploration of the Moon (2007) National Research Council.

WHICH COMES FIRST?

Right now all the talk, among the public and in the halls of government, is about one nation launching a new mission to our Moon. The implications from each discussion are that whoever lands back on the Moon claims it. In our opinion this must be avoided at all costs. The Moon and any settlement on it is totally an international issue.

So, before we even begin to develop a new mission to the Moon, must we first establish the Global Space Congress we call for? We believe it should be the other way around. We start the new Moon mission, but with the participation of as many international invitees as possible. Like the International Space Station we declare the mission an international one. From this definite and positive beginning we then begin to build the structure of the GSC. We certify this, by making certain that when our mission lands back on the Moon we declare it an international achievement.  Ideally we signify this by planting an international banner instead of any one nation's flag on the surface of the Moon.

Ho hum! Here come the international lawyers and diplomats seeking to carve out prime spots both on the Moon and on the developing GSC.  We need to avoid this by clearly establishing in the staffing of the Moon mission a command hierarchy based on expertise and mission goals.  As we have seen, again, with the ISS, command assignments rotate. We should expect to do this as the rule on all future Moon missions as well as the eventual leadership of the Moon Base itself.

So, the protocol exists by virtue of what we have accomplished with the ISS. We need to extend and expand that protocol to be the rule for the Moon Base program. By following this existing procedure we do not delay progress in getting ready for the initial Moon mission while, as we specify, we start the building process of the Global Space Congress.  Can we do it?  Will we do it?  Well, where do we want humankind to be 100 years from now?  To answer that question we must start now, and start with Moon Base Apollo.

CREDITS: The image in this blog article is courtesy of NASA and is of the ISS Expedition 18 crew.

WHY THE MOON, FIRST?

Well, despite the "been there, done that" crowd, there are thousands of reasons, both emotional and scientific for returning to the Moon as our NEXT STEP for humankind.  For some, including us, just being able to sit on the Moon and experience a succession of Earth rises may be enough reason. It would be a magical and endearing reminder of how vital and precious our home planet is.  That, notwithstanding, there are some very important arguments, both scientific and commercial for choosing to create a permanent Moon Base, and to make it our launch point for extended explorations of our solar system.

Although there are a host of commercial goals related to a Moon Base operation, our focus is on a Moon Base as the key Command and Control center for the launching of extended solar system explorations.  Associated with this objective are on-site explorations to determine the most suitable location for a permanent lunar-style "JSC and KSC" operation.  In this regard, the accessibility of the Moon to Earth, its size and potential to accommodate both extensive civil and commercial operations make it an ideal initial space-based, long term operation.  The ongoing habitation and support research carried out by both NASA and the Moon Society increasingly indicate the suitability of a lunar site for our future human spaceflight operations. You may click here to view a presentation by the Moon Society on current and forcasted lunar missions.

Our development of a permanent Moon Base will take a considerable investment in time and expense.  In this regard, our position on the creation of a Global Space Congress would provide an international investment of money, manpower, and technology toward the achievement of the lunar site. Yes, there will be mistakes and setbacks, but these will be offset by an overall progress. The international participation strengthens this program just as it has with the International Space Station. It will be the second most important step in solidifying global unity for deep space exploration and eventual commercial operations.

It is doubtful that most Earthlings will venture very far into outer space. Perhaps, in time, there will be commercial jaunts into Low Earth Orbit, and eventually tourist operations on our Moon. This latter offering will further strengthen humankind's appreciation of and concern for both planet Earth and the overall status of our solar system. These are key elements that bind us into a full-fledged space-faring citizenry. This will insure the next phase of human evolution will have begun.

As we have implied above, the establishment of a lunar base is a joint and solidifying venture. From a logistics standpoint the proximity of our Moon to Earth makes the transport of  crews and supplies a serious, but attainable and sustainable process. In this regard, we envision the design and development of a LunaShuttle that will fulfill the transport and trucking needs of the Moon exploration and settlement teams. We will discuss, in detail, the LunaShuttle in following blog articles. We will say this, that once launched LunaShuttles will remain parked at an expanded ISS/Servicing Facility when they are not on duty. More on this later, with more detail.

We have avoided the classic explorers' explanation for their motivation. "because it is there", but to some extent it directly applies to establishing a Moon Base first.  It is a resource-full large space station at  a reasonable distance that offers ample support for all of our future space exploration missions. Besides, it is really very much part of us and to ignore its potential and promise is to make our efforts more difficult and more expensive. It is a Sleeping Beauty waiting to be awakened again.

CREDITS: The image of the Earth-rise was taken by the Apollo 8 astronauts as they orbited our Moon. Courtesy NASA and the Apollo 8 astronauts.

A GLOBAL SPACE CONGRESS

No single nation on planet Earth should dominate space, especially deep space.  The exploration of our solar system and beyond is and should be expanded to represent all nations of this planet.  We used the present tense in the preceding statement because the International Space Station is a great example of the global cooperation that must prevail in all our future space exploration efforts.

Our view is that efforts must be made now, not later, to organize what we describe as a Global Space Congress (GSC). This entity becomes the governing body of all space activities launched for the exploration of space. It includes and encourages commercial ventures in this regard through the issuance of specific exploration or service licences.  These two authorizations are explained below. Right now we will discuss the organization of the GSC

The Global Space Congress (GSC): Every nation on planet Earth is eligible to become a member of the GSC.  Membership is through representation by an elected/appointed delegate and staff from a country or, like the European Space Agency (ESA), a group of nations. The overall operation of the GSC is managed by an Executive Council.  The Executive Council is elected by a full majority of the GSC.  Leadership of the Executive Council is elected by the a total majority of the Executive Council members.  Both the Executive Council and its leaders serve at the pleasure of the GSC and for an eight year term.  The Executive Council appoints a variety of special committees all related to the overall space exploration mission of the GSC. All such committee appointments are subject to the approval of the GSC by a majority vote.

GSC Prime Functions: (1) The GSC, its Executive Council and Committees are responsible for the review and approval (licensing) of all space exploration and space service operations.  This activity results in a full coordination of scientific and technical programs in support of each approved mission. (2) The GSC and its special finance committee oversees and coordinates global funding for each approved mission. Additionally the GSC Science Committee coordinates and monitors the funding and progress of approved space science research projects.  These R&D projects are global in nature and do not include specific academic or commercial research projects that are not directly related to specific space exploration projects. Certain Astronomy and Astrobiology projects are two examples that could be independent of GSC control.

The above is a preliminary concept of those primary functions. It is anticipated that other prime functions will develop as the organization comes into existence and begins to operate.

Licensing: The GSC and its Executive Council/Committees are responsible for issuing licenses that authorize a joint venture space exploration mission that is comprised of both civil and commercial activities. This licensing is to insure that the goals of the GSC are respected and followed as well as the authorization of both funding and technical support for each approved mission. The licensing requirement also strives to control the spread of "space junk" in both low Earth orbits and in other planetary orbits within the solar system.

In some special cases, licenses will be granted to global commercial activities that are seeking to conduct business (mining,  tourism, etc) activities in both Low Earth Orbit and on specified planetary or asteroid bodies within our solar system. These activities could also include the design, construction and operation of space elevators and associated space stations that are operated on a fee basis in support of GSC approved space exploration programs.

Summary:  Yes, we can hear the clatter of both objections and questions. We understand and also acknowledge that the above is just an overview and does not go into the full and necessary detail of such an operation. That will come as part of the actual formation of the GSC.

We encourage each of you that visits this blog and especially this entry to post comments, questions, and suggestions. We ask that if you oppose the concept of a global space organization that you offer clear reasons why it should not be. We ask this because we think that a competition between nations of Earth for the exploration and "conquest" of space should not be the way we Earthlings go about getting acquainted with our solar system. Additionally, as we are already learning, no single nation or even a group of nations will have the financial resources to fund the level of space exploration that we should consider and strive for. Unity of purpose, resources and research and design ideas are essential if we are truly going to "go where no human has gone before."

Lastly, it is time that humankind comes together as we look to the next step in our evolution. The GSC concept and our joint exploration of space enables that grand accomplishment. On that day, when astronauts visit Mars or another planetary body, they do so "for all humankind" and in the process plant a flag that is an international symbol of the unity and peaceful purpose of this great and lovely planet. To life across the universe, our message: We are now one, and here we come - in peace!

CREDITS: The image of the ISS is courtesy of NASA.

MAKING SERIOUS READY

There have been and are all sorts of preparations, past and present, related to a second visit to our Moon. What is not clear is whether this next visit will be just that or will be the first step in the founding of a permanent Moon Base. The Constellation program, though teetering on the verge of cancellation is still being worked on and the Lunar Reconnaissance Observer (LRO) is still doing an effective job of mapping the Moon. It is finding candidate landing sites in the polar regions near the detected frozen water sources.

The Obama Plan essentially cancels the original planned Moon mission envisioned under the Constellation program. At this writing, Congress is still debating whether to accept that cancellation or to support an alternative project that uses most of Constellation's R&D efforts.  Since we advocate establishing a permanent Moon Base we are going with the concept of a modified Constellation plan.

In order to put this into action there are many preliminaries that need to be established in advance of actually landing on the Moon and starting to construct the base station. In this regard we will be presenting comments and information that pertains to each of the steps in the process. We will do this separately with individual blogs entries with an overall summary at the end of each entry. Here is the initial list of these entries:

(1) A Global Space Congress
(2) Technology Considerations for a Permanent Station
(3) Initial Goals and Planned Achievement
(4) Problems and Constraints
(5) Initiating the Plan
(6) Operations
(7) The Future: A Way To Mars.

Mars advocates, please do not despair.  We are Mars advocates too, we just feel that the best and surest way to get to Mars is from our Moon.  We also believe that what we learn in establishing a Moon Base will be invaluable for our plans for exploring Mars, and other planetary bodies in our solar system.

Notes: (1) It should be noted that the above list may be modified with either deletions and additions as we move along in this discourse.  We hope you will understand this and continue to follow us. (2) It is not possible to "terraform" our Moon, so the Moon Base will be a self-sustaining shelter environment as opposed to a transformation of parts of the Moon into an Earthlike setting.

CREDITS: The image above of LRO is courtesy of NASA art.

REGOLITH - SUPER LUNAR RESOURCE

Regolith or in our case "Moon Dust" is that layer of loose rock that overlays a planet's bedrock. Lunar Regolith refers to that layer that exists on our Moon. This layer constitutes a valuable resource of materials that can be used to support and sustain a permanent Moon Base. The following are two references that will help you understand the components and values of the minerals and materials contained in lunar regolith.

(1) A NASA funded study of lunar regolith that introduces some related terminology that will be common in future discussions.
(2) Termed PAYDIRT, this is a presentation that shows a breakdown of the components of lunar regolith and how it would be used to support a Moon Base. Please notice the amount of regolith that needs to be mined to support the extraction of some elements. When you do this also reflect on the comments included in the preceding blog article MOON AESTHETICS.

The term "strip mining" is used in discussions involving the use of regolith to support lunar operations.  The challenge is to facilitate these mining operations without totally destroying the geological and geographical profile of our Moon.  Can we do this?  Will we do this?  Considering our present oil spill disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, it is understandable if we do not have complete trust in the safety and care by mining/drilling operations here or on the Moon.

Can any government entity successfully monitor and control the extraction of minerals from any planetary body or asteroid in such a way that the overall geobiological profile of that body is not compromised?  Should this control be a fully enforced dictum of our proposed global space exploration organization?  Please consider these questions and add you comments. Remember, by converting extensive comments into pdf file format and linking to it allows you to offer full explanations or opinions.

CREDITS: The image displayed above is a segment of a photograph taken by Apollo 11 astronaut Buzz Aldrin while on the Moon.  The photo is courtesy of NASA.

MOON AESTHETICS

One of the concerns of many people about a permanent settlement on the Moon is whether that will destroy the mystical beauty and grandeur it regularly provides to most people. The thought of monster neon signs advertising some soft drink or new prescription drug sends shudders through most folks.  Equally worrisome are thoughts about industrial use of the Moon that begins to destroy its unique face.  All of this is linked to a long history of Moon Lore that has been a part of Earth history since life arose on this planet.  We emphasize life, rather than just humans.  A variety of Earthly creatures are directly affected behaviorally by the Moon and its phases.  Humans, more than other life forms have included the Moon in a variety of rituals, drama, musical compositions, art, and, most importantly, science.

Speaking of Moon music here are three vastly different samples of how our Moon has been honored by musical compositions: (1) Formal  (2) Romantic (3) Wild Killer.  Now we are sure you can find scads more Moon music, and we hope you will while thinking about our blog.

Moon art is all over and in a variety of formats and impact. We encourage you to look around on the Internet and nearby art galleries. To help you get started you might want to visit here

So what should we do? Not go to the Moon?  Humankind will go to the Moon, our idea is that it should be sooner, and a global effort.  Because Moon aesthetics is global we believe that an agreement on care of Moon aesthetics by the permanent Moon Base would be both a reasonable and sustainable requirement.  Please take the time to add your comments below on what you think.  Make suggestions in addition to your opinions, please.

We close this blog entry with Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata. One of the most brilliant minds in all history. A musical genius who had a deep devotion to not only art, but science.  Play this while looking at a full moon some night. Feel you spirits rise with hope and resolve

CREDITS: Moon image, astrophotograph by Waddell Robey via telescopes at Slooh.com. Used by permission.

MOON BASICS

It is not like we do not know a lot about our Moon. Since 1958 there have been explorations of the Moon by satellite and spacecraft including the 6 successful manned Apollo missions.  The last exploratory event involving the Moon was the LROC and LCROSS spacecraft search for water at the lunar poles.

The majority of our data, however, comes from the Luna and Apollo missions.  This underscores the advantages of shared, international programs of space exploration, and this occurred even when we were in a Cold War status with the then Soviet Union.

The discovery of water at the Moon's southern most pole increases the feasibility of a long-term human mission to the Moon. Regardless, there is more that must be learned before we can consider establishing a Moon Base. Much of that information must come from human spaceflight missions to the Moon where specific data is obtained that defines the areas and conditions that must exist to support a permanent settlement on the Moon. The following are some resources of information about Moon basics. Please click the highlighted links for access.

(1) A collection of information on the LROC/LCROSS project.
(2) A source of current images of the Moon with related data.
(3) A source about Lunar Geology. Note: You must log on to Moon Zoo for access.
(4) Earn an official certificate in Lunar Study and Observation from the Moon Society
(5) The Moon Society's optimistic report on the possibility of settlement on the Moon.
(6) A complete, official summary of the entire Apollo Moon Mission.

The listing above just scratches the surface, and as we continue, we will provide more detail links for your review.

CREDITS: (a) Header image: Artwork courtesy of NASA (b) Lunar lander over Moon: Actual photograph courtesy of NASA

SHARING GREAT IDEAS

One of the prime goals of this blog is to encourage followers to develop and share their own technical/scientific ideas with the rest of us.  If you have such an idea, at any time, and it is far too long and extensive to put in a comment, we suggest the following:

Create your idea using MS Word or a similar word processing language. After you have completed it, save it in a pdf file format. Then if you have access to a server (from your own blog or website) upload the pdf file to the server.  You can then create a link to that file here on this blog that will allow all of us to view it and comment on it.

• If you do not have access to a server, see if a friend or relative does and ask permission to upload to their server. This will work just as well.

The nice thing about this approach is that your pdf file can include images and illustrations that will make your presentation more interesting and understandable.

We look forward to your submissions, and yes we will respect your original ideas and your copyrights.

MOON SOCIETY and MOON ZOO

If you have decided to follow along with us in our Moon Base Apollo blog, then we highly recommend that you get involved in two key activities associated with our Moon and the potential to establish a permanent Moon Base.  As the title of the post indicates, those two key areas of involvement are:

(1) The Moon Society, and you can reach it and join up by clicking here.

(2) The Moon Zoo, allows you to help in the geographic, geological analysis and very detailed mapping of the Moon's surface.  You may participate in this scientific effort by clicking here.

We encourage you to seriously consider linking up with these two activites. We guarantee, you will quickly become a lunar expert and we can use as many of those as possible.

Join now, learn and enjoy.

IN THE BEGINNING

We have selected the title of this blog to honor the series of courageous and important human spaceflights under NASA's Apollo program.  It is our goal to present information, data, and arguments in favor of establishing a permanent base on our Moon. We will use a wide range of resources (all of which will be available to you through links) in support of our goal.  In this regard, we encourage you to become involved and to express your own ideas and questions regarding a permanent moon base.

Our philosophy: We envision a permanent moon base as the first critical element in humankind's exploration of deep space.  Deep space, in this regard, is seen as our entire solar system.  We set this limit for human exploration because we are not yet at a point where humankind can venture beyond the limits of our solar system.  Even this area involves great distances and many hazards.

We use the term humankind, because we envision and actively promote the idea that all future space exploration should be an international effort.  This Earth and our solar system is home for all its citizens.  We must venture forth on behalf of all of us and when we establish research bases or stations they will be on an global basis just like our International Space Station.

This blog is a series of presentations that move toward the founding of a permanent Moon Base.  Expect changes as we go along, because despite the many missions to our Moon, there is still a great deal to learn before setting up a Moon Base operation.  The longer we wait in making these explorations and assessments the longer it will take for us to begin serious and sustained explorations of our solar system.