The North American space agency NASA reaffirmed, on July 25, 2026, its commitment to advanced technologies such as nuclear propulsion for future manned missions to Mars and the construction of a permanent lunar base. The plans were detailed during the AirVenture Oshkosh event, which was also attended by commercial astronaut Jared Isaacman. The agency’s vision is for a sustainable and long-lasting human presence in deep space.

Focus on Space Exploration with Jared Isaacman

Jared Isaacman, commander of the Polaris Dawn mission, discussed his space aspirations and the importance of lunar exploration to the advancement of humanity. In his participation in AirVenture, the businessman and astronaut highlighted the role of private initiatives in democratizing access to space.

Among Polaris Dawn’s ambitious goals are carrying out the first fully commercial spacewalk, testing laser communication and deepening studies on the effects of radiation on long-duration flights. This research is crucial to the safety of future space travelers.

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Isaacman addressed the challenges inherent to the mission, including radiation exposure in the space environment and the intense G-forces experienced by crew members during the launch and reentry phases. He highlighted the need for continuous overcoming to explore new frontiers.

The astronaut emphasized the growing relevance of the commercial space sector, exemplifying the work of SpaceX, to drive innovation and the development of new technologies. He considers public-private partnerships essential for the future of exploration.

NASA’s vision for exploring Mars and the Moon

Ken Bowersox, NASA associate administrator for space operations, presented the agency’s priorities regarding space exploration. He highlighted the need to advance with new technologies to achieve more distant goals, reaffirming the agency’s leadership.

The crucial role of nuclear propulsion for Mars

Bowersox reinforced the vital importance of nuclear thermal propulsion (PTN) as a transformative element to enable manned missions to Mars. This technology is seen as a fundamental step towards reducing risks and optimizing interplanetary travel.

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The advantages of nuclear propulsion are significant for long-distance exploration. It allows faster travel, drastically reducing the time astronauts are exposed to cosmic radiation, in addition to enabling the transport of larger payloads. For Mars, this means missions could be safer and more efficient, offering more time for surface exploration and less transit time in a hostile environment.

NASA plans to test nuclear thermal propulsion technology in the 2030s, aiming for its subsequent integration both in Mars missions and in the infrastructure of a future base on the Moon. This innovation is expected to accelerate the pace of space exploration.

Artemis program and the permanent lunar base

The Artemis program remains a priority, with the goal of establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon, including the development of a permanent base. Bowersox also mentioned the possibility of mining lunar resources, such as ice, to support Mars exploration.

The associate administrator cited the use of the powerful Space Launch System (SLS) for missions beyond Artemis III, indicating a continued expansion of lunar operations. The SLS is crucial for transporting heavy payloads and crew to the Moon.

Learn more: American space agency changes lunar plan and focuses on fixed base with new nuclear-powered spacecraft

The future of space stations

Bowersox also detailed plans for the commercial crew program, which aims to ensure continued access to space, and the vision for the development of future space stations. The agency seeks to ensure the continuity of research in low Earth orbit.

In the long term, NASA envisions that commercial space stations, developed by private companies, could replace the International Space Station (ISS) as orbiting research and habitation platforms. This transition marks a new era for human presence in space.