Overview

• After a site visit to SpaceX’s Starbase, ASAP members said the Human Landing System schedule is significantly challenged for a mid‑2027 landing.
• The panel identified on‑orbit cryogenic propellant transfer as the pivotal risk, dependent on Starship Version 3, tanker and depot flight demonstrations, and Raptor V3 reliability.
• ASAP noted potential conflicts between Starlink launch demands and the flight test cadence needed to mature Starship HLS capabilities.
• SpaceX remains the only provider capable of delivering a lunar lander for Artemis III as Blue Origin’s lander is slated for later missions.
• ASAP urged NASA to redistribute some Artemis III mission firsts to reduce schedule and safety risk, adding that Axiom’s lunar spacesuit and HLS delivery timelines are aggressive.