NASA to send its first mobile robot to search for water on the moon

The United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration is planning to search for water and other resources on the moon in 2023. The US agency, as part of its Artemis program, is planning to send its first mobile robot to the Moon in late 2023 in search of ice and other resources on and below the lunar surface. The Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover, or VIPER will collect data that would help NASA map resources at the lunar South Pole that could one day be harvested for long-term human exploration at the Moon.

About the VIPER:

  • The data received from VIPER has the potential to aid our scientists in determining precise locations and concentrations of ice on the Moon and will help us evaluate the environment and potential resources at the lunar south pole in preparation for Artemis astronauts.
  • VIPER runs on solar power. It will be required to quickly manoeuvre around the extreme swings in light and dark at the lunar South Pole.
  • NASA has awarded a task order to Astrobotic for VIPER’s launch, transit and delivery to the lunar surface as part of the agency’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative.

Important takeaways for all competitive exams:

  • 14th NASA administrator: Bill Nelson;
  • Headquarters of NASA: Washington D.C., United States;
  • NASA Founded: 1 October 1958.
AddThis Website Tools
Sumit Arora

As a team lead and current affairs writer at Adda247, I am responsible for researching and producing engaging, informative content designed to assist candidates in preparing for national and state-level competitive government exams. I specialize in crafting insightful articles that keep aspirants updated on the latest trends and developments in current affairs. With a strong emphasis on educational excellence, my goal is to equip readers with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in their exams. Through well-researched and thoughtfully written content, I strive to guide and support candidates on their journey to success.

Recent Posts

Raksha Bandhan 2025: History, Significance, and Celebrations

Raksha Bandhan in 2025 celebrates on Saturday, August 9, 2025. This festival takes place on…

2 hours ago

Raksha Bandhan: 10 Unknown Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Raksha Bandhan is widely celebrated as a festival that honors the deep bond between brothers…

3 hours ago

LIC Q1 FY26 Results: Net Profit Rises 5% to ₹10,987 Crore, Asset Quality Improves

India’s largest life insurer, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), kicked off FY26 with a…

5 hours ago

Tata AutoComp to Acquire Slovakia-Based IAC Group: Expanding Its Global Footprint

In a move that underscores its global ambitions, Tata AutoComp Systems Ltd, a leading Indian…

5 hours ago

RBI Survey: India’s Merchandise Imports to Grow Twice as Fast as Exports in FY26

India's trade balance could face renewed stress in FY26, as per the 95th round of…

6 hours ago

India’s Electronics Exports Soar Over 47% in Q1 FY26, Driven by Mobile Phones

India's electronics export industry continues its upward march, recording an impressive 47% year-on-year growth in…

6 hours ago