Science Committee Leaders Seek Answers Regarding the Cancellation of NASA’s VIPER Project

(Washington, D.C.) - Today, Chairman Frank Lucas (R-OK) and Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), along with Space and Aeronautics Chairman Brian Babin (R-TX) and Ranking Member Eric Sorensen (D-IL), sent a letterto National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Administrator Bill Nelson regarding the cancellation of the Volatiles Investigating Polar Exploration Rover (VIPER) project.

"We must fully assess the strategic and scientific implications of NASA's decision not to launch VIPER, complete its delivery to a site near the South Pole of the Moon, and gain important data on lunar volatiles," the Members said in their letter. "This is a critical time to demonstrate the United States's commitment to leadership on lunar science and exploration, and any action taken with regards to VIPER must further that purpose."

The Members continued, "We understand that the fiscal environment for NASA is challenging and that NASA must make difficult decisions when programs are significantly over budget and behind schedule. Given the investments made on VIPER to date, the status of the assembled and integrated rover, and the national importance of our civil and commercial lunar exploration activities, it is imperative that Congress fully evaluate NASA's proposed decision to terminate VIPER. We, therefore, request that you provide detailed cost and schedule information regarding NASA's proposed termination of VIPER and information regarding alternative options for the rover going forward, including the option of proceeding with the launch and landing of VIPER on the Moon."

The letter can be found here.

Permalink: https://republicans-science.house.gov/2024/9/science-committee-leaders-seek-answers-regarding-the-cancellation-of-nasa-s-viper-project