Race to the lunar South: world powers renew ambitions with next-generation lunar missions

Next week, India and Russia will conduct lunar missions targeting the uncharted south pole of the Moon.

This reflects a renewed global enthusiasm for moon missions, with goals such as establishing bases and utilizing lunar resources.

Nations like the US, China, and European Space Agency (ESA) members are planning return trips to the Moon, including the potential for manned missions – something not achieved since 1972.

Six orbiters currently surround the Moon, gathering data for future missions. India and Russia hope to mark the first successful south pole lunar landing next week.

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