As part of its comprehensive 10-year Lunar Architecture (LunA-10) capability study, the DARPA has selected Northrop Grumman to develop a lunar railway system. The lunar rail system will be a means of transportation for people, supplies, and resources for commercial ventures on the surface of the Moon.
Northrop Grumman will research to identify the necessary interfaces and resources to build a lunar rail network, while assessing potential cost, technological and logistical risks. Upon completion of the study, prototypes, demonstrations, and analyses of a functional lunar rail system will be conducted. If successful, the lunar railway could contribute significantly to the development of a space economy for both the United States and its international partners.
All images courtesy of DARPA and NORTHROP GRUMMAN
