The Odyssus probe's mission to the moon is very important, says astrophysicist Robert Lamontagne, who believes that humanity can “learn many things” from Earth's natural satellite.
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“What is particularly interesting in the environment where the probe landed is the presence of water in the form of ice. The idea is to explore this region at the south pole of the Moon in preparation for future missions in which we will return astronauts to the Moon,” he explains.
In the medium term, the goal is to prepare a permanent installation on the lunar soil or in orbit around the natural satellite. However, the ultimate goal is to prepare space missions that would go much further.
“It is a first step towards the great adventure of the planet Mars,” says Robert Lamontagne.
“To ultimately arrive on Mars, we must learn to live independently in space,” he adds.
Scientists need to find a way to extract water, currently in the form of ice, to drink and grow food. They then need to be able to release oxygen in order to have access to breathing air and use hydrogen as fuel.
The astrophysicist believes that it is also important to “learn how to create an environment in which we multiply the expertise that will be required for a very long journey to Mars, a journey that will most likely last between one and three years “So we have to learn to live in space, just like we learn to live on Earth.”
To watch the full interview, watch the video above.