SpaceX and NASA have dropped a visual treat, showcasing how Starship is set to play a pivotal role in the Artemis 3 mission to land astronauts on the moon. The newly released renders offer a closer look at the sleek Human Landing System (HLS) configuration of Starship, designed specifically for NASA’s ambitious lunar program.
Scheduled for no earlier than 2026, Artemis 3 aims to mark humanity’s return to the moon after more than five decades. Here’s how SpaceX’s reusable Starship HLS is shaping up to carry that dream forward.
Starship’s Lunar Journey: A Step-by-Step Look
In NASA’s current mission plan, astronauts will transfer from the Orion spacecraft to the Starship HLS while in lunar orbit. This specially configured Starship will then descend to the moon, carrying the astronauts to the surface.
But before it even reaches lunar orbit, the Starship HLS will undergo orbital refueling, where two Starships dock belly-to-belly to transfer fuel—a feat SpaceX is actively refining.
HLS Design: Aesthetic and Functional Tweaks
The renders reveal a reimagined Starship tailored for lunar operations:
- Finish: A sleek white coating replaces the stainless steel and thermal tile design seen on standard Starship variants.
- Crew Features: Windows provide astronauts with breathtaking views, while the design omits the fins typical of SpaceX’s other Starship models.
- Landing Tech: Two of its six Raptor engines will execute braking burns, ensuring a smooth touchdown on the moon.
Another notable feature is the built-in elevator system that will lower astronauts to the lunar surface. This design was successfully tested earlier this year with a mockup and Axiom Space’s custom moon suits, confirming ample space and efficiency for astronaut operations.
Artemis 3 Delays: Challenges on the Road to the Moon
While Artemis 3 was initially planned for 2024, the timeline has shifted to September 2026 due to development hurdles. Key challenges include Orion’s heat shield issues and the lengthy process of preparing Starship for orbital flights.
Despite these delays, SpaceX’s Starship program has made notable strides, with six test flights under its belt and incremental progress on its ambitious orbital goals.
Why It Matters
SpaceX’s Starship HLS is more than just a rocket; it’s the key to NASA’s vision of sustainable lunar exploration. With its reusable design, groundbreaking technology, and collaboration with NASA, this mission sets the stage for future moon landings—and perhaps Mars journeys.
