The Moon's south pole can spend days in darkness, temperatures can plunge below −200°C, and unprotected electronics may not survive — Northrop Grumman is repurposing hardware built for NASA's shelved Gateway station to test how lunar systems cope

Northrop Grumman is repurposing hardware originally built for NASA's shelved Gateway lunar space station. The company aims to test how lunar systems cope with the Moon's extreme conditions, such as prolonged darkness and temperatures below −200°C. The shift follows NASA's decision to cancel the Gateway program, which has led to layoffs at contractors.

Space contractor Paragon has laid off staff after the cancellation. NASA's canceled lunar space station technology will now be used to help build the Artemis moon base. The Moon's south pole presents unique challenges for lunar missions.

The region can spend days in darkness, with temperatures plunging below −200°C. Unprotected electronics may not survive these conditions. Northrop Grumman's repurposing efforts are focused on ensuring that lunar systems can withstand these harsh environments.