NASA–ESA partnership: Artemis II paves the way for exploration of the Moon’s far side and south pole

At the same time, he stresses the scientific importance of exploring the far side of the Moon and, in the near future, its South Pole, where untouched materials may reveal the Moon’s, and by extension, the Earth’s evolutionary history. Ultimately, this mission is seen as a necessary step in a longer journey: mastering lunar exploration before venturing further into deep space, including Mars. What we are witnessing is not a return to past achievements, but laying the foundation of a new era of exploration.