NASA BEGINS TRAINING WITH BLUE ORIGIN MOON LANDER

The training program marks a key milestone in NASA's timeline to return humans to the moon. Astronauts will familiarize themselves with Blue Origin's lander design, systems, and operational procedures through hands-on work with the prototype. Blue Origin's Blue Moon lander is one of the vehicles NASA selected to transport crews from lunar orbit to the surface. The company has been developing the system as part of NASA's broader Artemis program, which aims to establish sustained human presence on the moon. The 2028 target represents NASA's current schedule for the next crewed lunar landing following the Apollo era. Training with prototype hardware allows astronauts to identify design requirements, refine procedures, and validate safety protocols before operational flights. Blue Origin competes with SpaceX and other contractors to provide lunar transportation services. The training phase is essential for mission readiness and ensures crews are prepared for the complexities of lunar descent and surface operations.