Why It's Taken Over 50 Years to Return to the Moon

A space historian explains the challenges of sending humans safely back to the lunar surface.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 6:20pm

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Despite advanced technology and NASA's efforts, it has taken over 50 years to return to the Moon. A space historian explains that sending humans into space safely continues to be difficult, as new technologies require years of study, development and testing before they can be certified for flight. Issues with spacecraft systems and materials can also surprise and worry engineers, leading to delays, as seen with Boeing's Starliner and NASA's Orion heat shield.

Why it matters

Returning to the Moon is a major goal for space exploration, but the technical hurdles involved have proven more difficult to overcome than many might expect. Understanding the reasons behind the long delay provides insight into the complexity of space travel and the cautious, methodical approach NASA must take to ensure astronaut safety.

The details

New technologies like those used in modern spacecraft require extensive research, testing, and certification before they can be used for crewed missions. Even then, unexpected issues can arise, as seen with problems involving the thrusters on Boeing's Starliner spacecraft and the heat shield on NASA's Orion capsule. These types of challenges have resulted in years of additional work to resolve the problems and alter mission plans accordingly.

  • NASA last landed astronauts on the Moon during the Apollo program in the early 1970s.
  • The Artemis I uncrewed test flight of the Orion spacecraft took place in late 2022.
  • The Artemis II mission, the first crewed Orion flight, is currently scheduled for 2024.

The players

National Air and Space Museum

A Smithsonian museum in Washington, D.C. that houses a large collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and related artifacts.

Boeing

An American multinational aerospace and defense corporation that manufactures the Starliner spacecraft.

NASA

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the independent agency of the executive branch of the United States federal government responsible for the civilian space program, as well as aeronautics and space research.

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What’s next

The Artemis II mission, the first crewed Orion flight, is currently scheduled for 2024.

The takeaway

Returning to the Moon remains a complex and challenging endeavor, requiring extensive research, testing, and careful planning to ensure the safety of astronauts. The long delay since the last lunar landing highlights the technical hurdles involved in space exploration, even with modern technology.