Relevance: GS III (Science & Technology – Space) | Source: The Indian Express

1. What is the News? (The Big Goal)

• NASA is getting ready to launch the Artemis II space mission. For the first time in 50 years, four astronauts will travel to the Moon.
• The Real Story: The world’s space strategy has completely changed. We are no longer going to the Moon just to take photos and come back. This time, humanity is going there to build a permanent base and stay.

2. Then vs. Now: Apollo vs. Artemis

If UPSC asks why we are going back to the Moon after 50 years, use this simple comparison:

• The Old Way (Apollo in the 1960s): This was a “Space Race” between the US and Russia. The only goal was to show off power by planting a flag and leaving footprints. We did not have the technology to survive there.
• The New Way (Artemis Today): The goal is to build a permanent human home on the Moon. Scientists will use the Moon as a “practice ground” and a launchpad to send humans even further into space, like to Mars.

3. The Mission Steps 

UPSC loves to ask what exactly happens in each stage of a space mission. Memorize these three simple steps:

4. The Future of Space 

Space exploration is changing rapidly. Here is what is happening next:

• The Old Space Station is Retiring: The International Space Station (ISS) is getting old and will be shut down soon. Instead of one big station, private companies and different countries will now build their own smaller space stations.
• Nuclear Spacecraft: To travel fast to Mars, NASA is moving away from regular rocket fuel and plans to use nuclear energy to power future spacecraft.
• India is a Major Player: Space is no longer just a US and Russia game. ISRO is a major global competitor today. India is planning its own human Moon landings and is building its own space station called the Bharatiya Antariksha Station.

The “UPSC Trap”

• The “Landing” Trap: UPSC will try to trick you by saying, “The upcoming Artemis II mission will land humans on the Moon.” Incorrect. Artemis II is strictly a flight around the Moon. The actual landing will happen in Artemis III.
• The “Solo Mission” Trap: A statement might say NASA is doing this entirely alone. Incorrect. This is a massive global team effort. India has even signed the Artemis Accords to cooperate on this project.

UPSC Value Box

With reference to recent developments in global space exploration, consider the following statements:

1. The Artemis II mission is designed to land a crew of astronauts on the Moon to establish a permanent base.
2. The International Space Station (ISS) operates in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
3. India is a signatory to the Artemis Accords, which promotes peaceful international cooperation in lunar exploration.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Correct Answer: (b)