Race to the Moon's South Pole: India's Historic Landing Sparks Global Interest

Countries like China, India, Russia, and the United States are racing to explore the south pole of the Moon due to the discovery of water ice hidden in deep craters. This water ice can be used for drinking, rocket fuel, and oxygen, making it a valuable resource for future lunar bases and Mars missions. NASA sees the Moon as a stepping stone to Mars and plans to establish a space station called Gateway in lunar orbit. Other countries also have long-term ambitions for crewed missions to Mars and want the prestige of Moon landings. The international race to claim landing spots and set up bases at the lunar south pole could create tension between nations.