NASA is inviting the public to send their names aboard its robotic moon rover. The rover, called the VIPER (Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover), is set to launch in late 2024.
To participate, interested individuals can submit their names on NASA’s website. The names will be etched onto a small chip, which will be attached to the rover. The chip will carry millions of names to the moon’s south pole, where the VIPER will explore and search for water ice on the lunar surface.
This initiative is part of NASA’s efforts to engage the public in its missions and bring awareness to its scientific exploration. By including people’s names on the rover, NASA allows individuals from all around the world to feel connected to the mission and be a part of the lunar exploration.
NASA Invites Public to Send Names Aboard Robotic Moon Rover
Getting your name aboard the rover is easy: Just go to this NASA site and follow the directions. You have until March 15 to do so. After the names are collected, they will be added to the chip, which will then be integrated into the rover before its launch.
NASA’s Artemis program aims to return humans to the moon by 2024 and establish sustainable lunar exploration by partnering with commercial and international entities. The VIPER rover will play a crucial role in understanding the moon’s resources and potential for future human missions.