NASA's latest plans include the development of a lunar rover called PROMISE, which would be realized by repurposing engineering models of Mars rovers. The project aims to create a device capable of conducting scientific missions on the Moon's surface using the Earth-based models of the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers. PROMISE, standing for Polar Rover for Observation, Mapping and In-Situ Exploration, is part of NASA's efforts to utilize existing hardware to support lunar base operations.
On June 30, NASA announced that they are considering sending PROMISE to the Moon. Jared Isaacman, NASA's administrator, emphasized that the rover could bring significant capabilities to the Moon's south pole. However, there is considerable debate over the project's costs, as an analysis by The Planetary Society suggests that developing and launching the rover could consume between $723 million and $1.33 billion, including a year of lunar operations.
According to The Planetary Society's analysis, the PROMISE project poses challenges beyond just costs. Modifying the Perseverance rover's engineering model, OPTIMISM, is necessary, as it currently lacks essential space components like a communications system. Additionally, using the radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) to power the rover would require significant work.
Isaacman responded to the cost estimates on social media, stressing that reducing PROMISE's costs necessitates using existing hardware and plutonium-238 fuel. NASA currently has a single spare RTG intended for PROMISE, but this would exclude other outer solar system scientific missions in the near future.
The PROMISE project is controversial not only because of the costs but also because it would limit testing opportunities for the Curiosity and Perseverance rovers. Using the RTG could also have long-term impacts on NASA's future scientific priorities.
At the NASA Exploration Science Forum on July 21, Louise Prockter, director of NASA's planetary science division, stated that the delay in the next call for proposals for the New Frontiers program was partly due to the review of nuclear energy availability. The New Frontiers program includes medium-sized missions, some of which may require RTGs.
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