orbit the moon and identify water sources. The goal was to obtain reliable information on potential water supplies to inform future explorations. The initiative was managed by NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and spearheaded by the private research university, the California Institute of Technology.
Caltech’s Lunar Trailblazer lead investigator, Bethany Ehlmann, stated to JPL, “Obtaining high-resolution measurements of the type and quantity of lunar water will enhance our understanding of the lunar water cycle, and it will offer insights into additional inquiries, such as how and when Earth acquired its water.” She further elaborated, “However, comprehending the lunar water inventory is also crucial if we aim to establish a long-term human and robotic presence on the Moon and beyond.”
Lunar Trailblazer was launched on February 26, 2025, from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Nevertheless, communication was lost after just one day. In spite of extensive efforts to regain contact and attempt to salvage the mission, it was officially concluded on July 31, 2025.
