NASA unveils $10B Moon base contract as SpaceX, Blue Origin join lunar gold rush

NASA has made SpaceX, Blue Origin and six other companies eligible to compete for lunar delivery work worth up to $10 billion over 10 years, as it advances plans for a lasting Moon base. The expanded programme would pay companies to carry scientific equipment, technology and infrastructure to the Moon’s south pole, helping prepare for astronauts’ return.

The $10 billion is a maximum contract ceiling for future orders, not money already awarded. NASA also raised the cap on its existing lunar delivery contract from $2.6 billion to $4.2 billion, and separately gave Blue Origin a $94 million base contract to deliver a nuclear-powered rover, with a further $140 million option. The rover is targeted for launch in late 2028; other awards include about $1.3 billion in cargo transport missions and work on communications and power systems.