Italy to Help Build First Human Lunar Outpost with NASA

Who’s Involved:

• Thales Alenia Space (TAS): A joint venture between Thales (France) and Leonardo (Italy).
  
• Italian Space Agency (ASI)
  
• NASA-led Artemis Program

Project Overview:

• Development of a Multi-Purpose Habitation Module (MPH) for the moon.
  
• To be launched from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in 2033.
  
• Will support the first permanent human presence on the lunar surface.

Key Features of the Module:

• Provides a secure, comfortable, and multifunctional habitat for astronauts.
  
• Compatible with other lunar systems and components.
  
• Capable of operating even without human presence — can conduct scientific research remotely.
  
• Designed for mobility across the lunar surface.
  
• Expected lifespan: at least 10 years.

Why It Matters:

• Marks a major step toward future Mars missions.
  
• Reinforces Italy’s position as a leader in the global space race.
  
• Part of a broader international collaboration including SpaceX and others.
  

Development Details:

• TAS will lead as prime contractor.
  
• Supported by ALTEC (co-owned by TAS and ASI) and other Italian industries.
  
• Initial 2-year development phase will focus on handling:
  
  • Moon’s harsh environment
    
  • High radiation
    
  • Reduced gravity
    
  • Lunar dust

ASI President Teodoro Valente:

“This module is part of Italy’s long-term investment vision to be a key player in the new space race.”