NASA announces the first phase of its lunar base plan, aiming for sustained astronaut stays in phase 3 from 2032 onward

NASA unveiled the first phase of its Moon Base roadmap at a May 26, 2026 event.

Phase 1, running from 2026 to 2029, will focus on lunar south pole exploration, tech demos, and robotic missions.

NASA also outlined three 2026 missions and awarded major contracts to Blue Origin, Astrolab, and Lunar Outpost.

Phase 2 targets semi-permanent infrastructure and early habitation from 2029 to 2032, followed by continuous lunar operations after 2032.