Photo credit: www.nasa.gov
Gateway’s HALO Module Arrives in Arizona: Paving the Way for Lunar Exploration
A significant milestone has been reached in the development of Gateway, which is poised to become humanity’s initial space station orbiting the Moon. The arrival of the first pressurized module, known as HALO (Habitation and Logistics Outpost), marks a crucial step forward in preparations for future lunar missions.
On April 1, HALO made its way to Arizona after a transatlantic trip from Thales Alenia Space in Turin, Italy. This module will now undergo essential outfitting at Northrop Grumman’s integration and test facility located in Gilbert. Following these adjustments, it will be coupled with Gateway’s Power and Propulsion Element at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Ultimately, both modules are set to launch together aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket.
Designed to support astronauts as they embark on the Artemis missions, Gateway’s HALO module provides a dedicated space for living, working, and conducting scientific inquiries. It is equipped with a suite of functionalities, including command and control, data management, energy storage, electrical distribution, thermal control, and communication capabilities via the Lunar Link system, developed by the European Space Agency (ESA). Additionally, HALO will feature docking ports for various visiting spacecraft, including NASA’s Orion capsule, lunar landers, and logistics modules. It is also designed to accommodate both internal and external science payloads, thus enabling extensive research opportunities in the challenging environment of deep space.
Constructed in collaboration with industry leaders and international partners, Gateway is set to facilitate continuous exploration of the Moon. It will serve as a dynamic platform for scientific experimentation and international cooperation while providing essential testing ground for the technologies and systems required for upcoming human missions to Mars.
Access additional high-resolution images of HALO here.
Source
www.nasa.gov