SpaceX Advances Human Landing System for NASA’s Artemis Program with Key Developments and Upcoming Tests

In a recent update, SpaceX provided insights into the progress of its Human Landing System (HLS) variant of the Starship, which is poised to play a vital role in NASA’s Artemis Program aimed at returning humans to the Moon. Since being awarded the contract in April 2021, the company has made considerable advancements in the design and development of this lunar lander, which is based on the Block 3 Starship design set to enter service in the first quarter of 2026. This upgraded variant aims to not just ferry astronauts but also transport around 100 tons of cargo to the lunar surface, using a network of tankers and depots for refueling.

The Starship HLS will feature a significant increase in internal volume, boasting approximately 600 cubic meters, and will include two airlocks with a combined volume exceeding that of the Apollo program’s Lunar Excursion Module. This configuration will accommodate essential supplies, living quarters, and a command area, all designed for vertical landing, which will necessitate the use of an elevator for crew descent.

SpaceX indicated that it has met 49 milestones in the HLS development process, collaborating closely with NASA and Lockheed Martin to finalize key systems. An important element of this effort was the validation of a versatile docking adapter, which will allow the HLS to connect with NASA’s Orion spacecraft and the Lunar Gateway, employing a design rooted in the proven technology of the Dragon 2 capsule.

Testing of life support systems within a full-scale mockup cabin has been conducted, alongside evaluations of the elevator mechanism with astronauts in spacesuits designed for extravehicular activities. Furthermore, SpaceX has successfully performed landing leg tests that mimic impacts on the Moon’s regolith, simulating conditions that the lander will encounter during its actual missions.

While these developments are promising, the Starship HLS is only one facet of SpaceX’s broader ambitions. The entire Starship system incorporates various variants, requiring the successful testing of new booster designs and launch facilities. To date, SpaceX has executed 11 full-stack flight tests and has achieved significant milestones, such as recovering boosters at the launch site and carrying out successful propellant transfers in orbit—key steps toward making the Starship system fully reusable.

Looking ahead, SpaceX is gearing up for a significant flight test involving Booster 18 and Ship 39, scheduled for early 2026. This test will mark a new phase in the Starship program and involves stringent preparatory work, including the completion of cryogenic testing and the use of a newly designed launch pad. Given that neither vehicle is fully constructed yet, time is critical.

Enhancements to both the Booster and Ship designs reflect technological refinements aimed at improving performance. The upcoming Block 3 variant features substantial redesign in key structural areas and has undergone extensive testing of components that will be crucial for achieving successful flight and landing operations.

Despite the challenges ahead, including further milestones and comprehensive testing regimens, successful flight tests could accelerate the timeline for the Artemis 3 mission. SpaceX remains committed to its goal of establishing a sustainable human presence on the Moon, with aspirations that extend to Mars, ensuring that their innovations continue to make significant strides toward making life multiplanetary.