A rough guide for going back to the Moon
NASA and IBM have released an open-source AI foundation model designed to map the Moon's surface. The tool aims to help astronauts identify craters, volcanic history, and potential water ice deposits for future missions.
Why it matters
Advanced AI mapping is critical for the success of the Artemis program and long-term human exploration of the Moon and Mars.
10 Sep 2026 Release 7 minute read A rough guide for going back to the Moon IBM and NASA’s new multi-modal lunar model could help astronauts navigate shadowed craters, investigate ancient lava flows, and prospect for ice as the US prepares for a long-term stay on the Moon and future missions to Mars.
Download the NASA-IBM Lunar Foundation Model
Check out the datasets used to benchmark the model
NASA’s Apollo missions proved that humans could make it to the Moon. The Artemis program now underway will test whether we can live and work there, too. NASA’s long-term vision calls for building a base on the Moon where astronauts can carry out research, test new technologies, and prepare for a push onward to Mars.
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