NASA develops seismometers for future lunar surface deployment

NASA scientists have developed a pair of advanced, highly sensitive seismometers designed for permanent installation near the lunar South Pole. This hardware is part of the broader Artemis program, which aims to facilitate sustainable scientific research and exploration on the Moon by astronauts.

The instrument package is engineered to monitor ground vibrations caused by both moonquakes and meteorite impacts. These data are critical for scientists to understand the lunar interior and to assess potential seismic risks for personnel working on the surface. The system features a modular design, allowing for future upgrades and the integration of additional sensors, creating a scalable and reusable research platform.

The payload is currently stored at the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland. It will remain there until it is formally assigned to a future Artemis mission for deployment on the lunar surface.