NASA is developing its next space station called Gateway, which will orbit the Moon rather than Earth. This will serve as a new lab for astronauts living and working in deep space.
A key module of Gateway called HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost) is currently undergoing testing in Italy. It will house life support systems and exercise equipment for astronauts.
NASA plans to launch HALO and the initial propulsion element into lunar orbit as early as 2025 atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. The full assembly of Gateway is expected to be complete by 2028.
Gateway will operate in a special “near rectilinear halo orbit” around the Moon’s poles, providing fuel efficiency and access to the lunar south pole for exploration and science work.
International partners like Europe, UAE, Canada and Japan are contributing modules and components to build out Gateway over multiple Artemis missions starting in 2028.
Gateway will serve as a hub for astronauts to journey between lunar landers and payloads delivered by Orion and help enable sustained human presence on and around the Moon.
Source: Mashable
