Last year was a big one for space missions. Now that we're officially in 2021, NASA is looking forward to a packed schedule of space exploration as it aims for the moon, Mars, and beyond. NASA has released a video outlining its plans for the new year, and the moon is the star of the show.
NASA's 2021 video begins with the moon and the planned launch of Artemis I.
While the video fills us with hope and optimism, the reality is that sending space missions on time is a challenge. A NASA report released in late 2020 cited delays to the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket, scheduling issues due to the COVID -19 pandemic , and high costs as obstacles to the agency's goal of landing humans on the moon by 2024 through the Artemis program.
The first major test of the SLS and Orion spacecraft is underway for 2021 with Artemis I, but we'll have to wait and see if the mission is able to launch this year.
Other NASA goals for 2021 are on track. The Perseverance rover is set to land on Mars on February 18. If all goes well, it will mark the beginning of a long-range plan to return Martian rock samples to Earth. The delayed remains on schedule with a launch date of October 31.
The Moon, Mars, and James Webb are some of NASA's biggest plans for 2021. The full video above will give you the full picture. If NASA manages to accomplish all the goals on its list for 2021, the year is expected to be epic to say the least.
Information source: cnet.com
