NASA Outlines 2027 Test Mission Ahead of Planned Moon Return in 2028

NASA disclosed new details on Friday about preparations for a test mission to Earth orbit in 2027, a step toward its planned return of astronauts to the Moon in 2028.

The timetable places the orbital test ahead of the lunar return, with the agency working toward two milestones in successive years.

The preparations come as SpaceX and Blue Origin race to develop lunar landing vehicles, putting their progress at the centre of the push to return astronauts to the Moon.

The 2028 target remains a plan rather than a confirmed landing date. The upcoming test mission and work on the landing vehicles form part of the preparations needed to turn that goal into a crewed lunar return.