lunarfirst

Lunarfirst is a term used in space policy and design discourse to describe an approach to lunar exploration that prioritizes establishing a durable human presence on the Moon from the outset. Proponents argue that early development of surface infrastructure, life support systems, and resource utilization should anchor mission architecture rather than focusing primarily on rapid Earth-to-space logistics or short-term crewed visits.

The name blends “lunar” with “first” to indicate a strategic emphasis on lunar surface operations as the starting point for expanded solar system activities. The term is used by policymakers, industry analysts, and researchers to discuss concepts, architectures, and timelines rather than a single program.

Core concepts include modular habitats, in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) for water and oxygen, regolith processing, robotics-enabled exploration, closed-loop life support, radiation shielding, energy systems (solar arrays), and a phased deployment that begins with robotic precursor missions, followed by crewed outposts and eventually scalable operations.

Governance and implementation discussions favor open design standards, international cooperation, and shared payloads to reduce cost and risk. Proponents advocate a roadmap that grows from robotic assets to habitations, with an emphasis on reliability and reusability to sustain long-term activity.

Critics warn that lunarfirst-like plans may incur high upfront costs and complexity, and that reliance on ISRU and other developing technologies carries execution risk. Critics also stress the need to align with planetary protection guidelines and ensure that missions do not concentrate resources or create dependencies on a single supplier.

See also: Artemis program, in-situ resource utilization, lunar base concepts.