NASA is letting people fly their names to the Moon
NASA is offering a unique opportunity for people around the world to send their names to the Moon aboard the VIPER (Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover) lunar rover and receive a virtual boarding pass. This groundbreaking mission aims to explore the Moon's South Pole, uncovering the secrets of lunar water and providing valuable insights for NASA's Artemis program, which plans to land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon.
'Send Your Name with VIPER' campaign
To participate in the "Send Your Name with VIPER" campaign, individuals can submit their names before March 15 at 11:59 pm EST, which is 10:29 am IST (March 16). NASA will then attach the collected names to the rover. By visiting www.nasa.gov/send-your-name-with-viper, participants can create a virtual boarding pass featuring their name as a keepsake. Sharing this experience on social media using the hashtag #SendYourName is highly encouraged.
About 13,000 people have already sent their names
According to a report by Digital Trends, over 13,000 people have already registered to have their name sent to the Moon so far. This is one way NASA enjoys interacting with space enthusiasts worldwide, particularly involving the younger generation to spark their interest in science and technology.
VIPER's mission and significance
Nicola Fox, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate, expressed excitement about the VIPER mission, stating, "With VIPER, we are going to study and explore parts of the Moon's surface no one has ever been to before - and with this campaign, we are inviting the world to be part of that risky yet rewarding journey." Daniel Andrews, VIPER's project manager, called the mission a "game-changer" for understanding potential lunar resources that could support long-term human presence on the Moon.
VIPER's launch and partnerships
In 2024, Astrobotic Technologies' Griffin Mission One is set to deliver VIPER to the lunar surface after launching from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket. During its 100-day mission, VIPER will utilize solar panels and batteries to power its scientific instruments, collecting data on lunar ice characteristics and concentrations. The rover is part of NASA's CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative under the Artemis program and the LDEP (Lunar Discovery and Exploration Program).
