DARPA Envisions Lunar Railroad, Commissions Northrop Grumman for Blueprint

The project aims to support a sustainable human presence on the Moon, focusing on feasibility studies and conceptual designs.

DARPA has commissioned Northrop Grumman to explore the feasibility of constructing a lunar railroad as part of its LunA-10 project, aiming for a permanent human presence on the Moon.
Northrop Grumman's study will investigate necessary interfaces, resources, costs, and risks, focusing on a conceptual design without actual construction.
The lunar railroad could support future commercial ventures by transporting humans, supplies, and resources across the Moon's surface.
Challenges include dealing with the Moon's abrasive regolith, which has historically caused equipment damage and health issues for astronauts.
The broader vision includes developing a sustainable, commercial lunar infrastructure, with DARPA aiming for a private economy on the Moon by 2035.