Perhaps with an early Futurama episode in mind (but probably the space horror flick opening this weekend), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration is grappling with how to preserve its historical presence on the Moon. More details are in the current issue (September 2) of Science.
Specific guidance is forthcoming, but the ScienceInsider summary suggests the effort is sincere and comprehensive. Besides covering how to approach landing sites and minimize contamination, NASA is developing a research ‘wish list’ for any teams (private or other countries) going to the Moon. With the Google Lunar X Prize chugging forward, it’s not crazy to think that this guidance could be needed sooner rather than later.
