Scott Manley

NASA's New Lunar Plan Revealed A Bit Too Much.....

The video dissects a recently released NASA infographic that outlines revisions to the Artemis program, focusing on a redesigned Space Launch System (SLS) upper stage. The visual suggests a longer upper stage with a shortened conical section, prompting speculation that NASA may adopt ULA’s Centaur V as the new Block 1 cryogenic propulsion stage. Analysts note that the dimensions of the mysterious stage align with the 28‑foot Centaur V used on ULA’s Vulcan rocket, offering roughly twice the propellant mass of the current interim stage. Because both the SLS and Centaur V are built by ULA, integration could leverage existing supply chains and sustain political support from Alabama‑based senators who championed the SLS. The infographic also shows Orion attached to a docking port atop the Blue Moon lunar lander, a configuration that would enable in‑orbit refueling and maneuvering between the two vehicles. While the status of the Lunar Gateway remains ambiguous, the inclusion of familiar lunar rovers and an Intuitive Machines lander hints at expanding commercial participation in NASA’s lunar architecture. If NASA proceeds with the Centaur V swap, the Artemis program could see reduced development costs, increased payload capacity, and a tighter schedule, while also deepening partnerships with private firms. These changes signal a strategic pivot toward modular, cost‑effective hardware and broader industry collaboration for sustainable lunar exploration.