Stony Brook Professor Tapped for NASA's Next Artemis Moon Missions

Timothy Glotch will help shape research plans for future lunar expeditions.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 10:06pm

A bold, abstract painting in the style of Hilma af Klint, featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals in earthy tones, conceptually representing the complex forces and concepts of lunar geology and exploration.An academic researcher's expertise in lunar science will help guide NASA's next steps in establishing a sustainable human presence on the moon.NYC Today

Stony Brook University professor Timothy Glotch has been selected as one of just 10 scientists nationwide to help shape research plans for NASA's upcoming Artemis moon missions. Glotch, a planetary geologist, will assist with locating minerals and water ice near the moon's south pole and contribute to building a sustainable lunar base.

Why it matters

Glotch's involvement in the Artemis program highlights the critical role that academic researchers play in advancing space exploration. His expertise in lunar geology will help ensure that future Artemis missions are grounded in the latest scientific understanding and maximize the potential for important discoveries.

The details

Glotch was thrilled to receive the call from NASA, saying his "heart was racing" and he "couldn't wipe the smile off [his] face" after being chosen for the prestigious opportunity. As part of the Artemis team, he will help astronauts on the 2028 mission and contribute to the ongoing effort to establish a permanent human presence on the moon.

  • Glotch was notified of his selection on Wednesday, shortly after the Artemis II rocket launched.
  • The 2028 Artemis mission that Glotch will support is planned for launch from either Cape Canaveral, Florida, or the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas.

The players

Timothy Glotch

A planetary geologist and professor at Stony Brook University who was selected as one of 10 scientists nationwide to help shape research plans for NASA's upcoming Artemis moon missions.

NASA

The U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration, which is leading the Artemis program to return humans to the moon and establish a sustainable lunar presence.

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What they’re saying

“I was over the moon! My heart was racing, I couldn't wipe the smile off my face for the entire day.”

— Timothy Glotch, Professor, Stony Brook University

“Artemis is being built from the ground up to be sustainable. I'm excited to bring Artemis to Stony Brook and teach classes.”

— Timothy Glotch, Professor, Stony Brook University

What’s next

Glotch will be present for the 2028 Artemis mission launch and continue his research on the moon's geology and resources to support the establishment of a permanent lunar base.

The takeaway

Glotch's selection for the Artemis program highlights the vital role that academic researchers play in advancing space exploration. His expertise in lunar science will help ensure that future Artemis missions maximize scientific discoveries and lay the groundwork for a sustainable human presence on the moon.