NASA is taking a significant step in the creation of the first orbital station near the Moon — Gateway. A vital component of the future base, the Habitation and Logistics Outpost (HALO) module, recently arrived at Northrop Grumman’s Arizona laboratory for final assembly and testing. The facility will provide a platform for scientific research and life for the astronauts of the Artemis missions, and is scheduled for launch in the coming years.
HALO is the heart of Gateway. It will provide crews with life support, power, thermoregulation and communications systems. The module was assembled in Italy by Thales Alenia Space, and after transportation to the U.S., it will be fitted with radiators, electrical panels, and docking ports for Orion spacecraft and lunar landers. Particular attention is being drawn to the Lunar Link system from the European Space Agency (ESA), which will provide a stable link between the Moon and Earth.
Gateway Demonstration
In late April, NASA and Northrop Grumman held a presentation of the module where they emphasized its role in lunar exploration. “HALO is not only a technical breakthrough, but also a symbol of international collaboration,” said Lori Glaze from NASA.
NASA and Northrop Grumman executives spoke at the event, including Acting Associate Administrator for Research Systems Development Lori Glaze, Gateway Program Manager Jon Olansen and NASA astronaut Randy Bresnik. Participants, which included NASA Senior Advisor to the Administrator Todd Ericson, elected officials, local industry and academic leaders, inspected the facility, the HALO module, and participated in a virtual reality demonstration.
Tests in extreme conditions
By the end of 2026, HALO will undergo a series of extreme tests:
- thermal vacuum — simulation of temperature variations from -150°C to +120°C;
- vibration and acoustic loads — test for resistance to rocket launch;
- impact tests — modeling of collisions with micrometeorites.
In parallel, in California, Maxar is building a power cell with solar panels that will convert light energy into thrust using xenon ions. This innovative technology will allow Gateway to maneuver in orbit at speeds in excess of 80,000 km/h.
Path to Mars begins with the Moon
Gateway will be the first space outpost beyond Earth orbit. It will open up new opportunities to explore deep space, test technologies for Mars missions and commercial missions. The first components of the station are expected to be launched by the end of 2026, with full assembly expected to be completed by the end of this decade.
The project realizes a global ambition: Europe, Japan, Canada and private companies are involved. And if everything goes according to plan, in a few years mankind will be able to see the first images from the “gate” to distant worlds.
We previously reported on how the Gateway space station would fail to dock with Starship in orbit of the Moon.
According to NASA
