Which major space program explicitly targets the lunar south pole for initial crewed landings due to water ice potential?
Answer
NASA’s Artemis program
NASA’s Artemis program has made the strategic decision to explicitly target the lunar south pole area for its first crewed landings. This focus is directly motivated by the high potential for accessible water ice resources located there. Water is viewed as the absolute cornerstone for achieving the overarching goal of establishing a sustainable, long-term human presence on the Moon, transforming the approach to off-Earth habitation from short visits to continuous outpost operations.
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