NASA engineers map Moon knowledge gaps for future missions

NASA is focusing on mapping gaps in knowledge needed for its upcoming Moon missions, especially for building bases and supporting systems on the lunar surface. Engineers like Richard Spolzino at Langley Research Center are pinpointing what NASA still doesn't know—for example, how much weight lunar dust can support—so those questions get answered before they become costly problems.

• NASA targets unknowns in lunar surface properties
• Focus on systems integration for Moon base planning
• Engineers catalog critical 'data gaps' before missions
• Effort aims to prevent mission risks and surprises