NASA is building a new spacecraft called the HALO capsule in Gilbert, Arizona, which will orbit the Moon before heading to Mars. The $140 million mission aims to become a stepping stone for humans to set foot on the Red Planet.
The HALO capsule is being outfitted with its interior and exterior components at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Gilbert. Astronaut Randy Besnik described the project as crucial, stating that it will serve as humanity’s home for 15+ years.
HALO will be part of a gateway system similar to the International Space Station but orbiting the Moon instead of Earth. The spacecraft is designed to test human capabilities and technology in deep space, protecting astronauts from radiation and extreme temperatures.
“It’s amazing to see this stuff go down in Arizona,” said Juan Machado Jr., a U of A Mechanical Engineering student. The HALO capsule is about the size of a one-bedroom apartment and will play a crucial role in understanding Mars’ secrets.
The mission is expected to launch in 2027, with President Trump setting a goal of sending humans to Mars by 2030.
Source: https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/nasa-capsule-being-built-gilbert-orbit-moon-become-stepping-stone-mars