Malta’s Role in Our Return to the Moon

From Apollo to Artemis: Malta’s Stake in Our Lunar Revival

It’s been nearly half a century since man last set foot on the moon. But as we stroll along the bustling streets of Republic Street in Valletta, the lunar fever that gripped the world in the 60s and 70s is making a comeback. This time, Malta is not just watching from the sidelines.

Malta’s Space Odyssey

Tucked away in the quiet town of Ħal Far, you’ll find the Malta Space Academy. Here, local engineers and scientists are working tirelessly to contribute to NASA’s Artemis program, aiming to land the first woman and the next man on the moon by 2024. The academy, a brainchild of local entrepreneur and space enthusiast, Joseph Cilia, is a testament to Malta’s growing role in the global space industry.

“We’re not just here to watch the moon landing on TV,” says Cilia, “We’re here to make it happen.”

Malta’s Lunar Legacy

Malta’s involvement in space exploration might seem like a recent development, but our island nation has a rich history in the field. Remember the Apollo 11 mission that first landed man on the moon? Malta played a crucial role in its success. The NASA tracking station in Dingli, operated by the Maltese military, was instrumental in communicating with the astronauts during their historic journey.

Today, Malta’s contribution to the Artemis program is equally significant. The Malta Space Academy is developing advanced propulsion systems and satellite technology that could revolutionize space travel. And let’s not forget the Malta-based company, Spacebit, which is working on lunar rovers to explore the moon’s surface.

Our Moon Shot

But why the sudden interest in the moon? The lunar revival is not just about reliving history. It’s about the future – a future where the moon serves as a stepping stone to Mars and beyond. It’s about the resources, the scientific discoveries, and the technological advancements that a return to the moon could bring.

For Malta, the moon shot is about more than just prestige. It’s about economic growth, job creation, and inspiring a new generation of scientists and engineers. It’s about turning our island into a hub for space innovation, a launchpad for the stars.

So, as we gaze up at the moon from our balconies in Msida or our rooftops in Birkirkara, let’s remember that we’re not just looking at a distant rock. We’re looking at our future. And Malta is set to play a significant role in shaping it.

“We’re not just going back to the moon,” says Cilia, “We’re going back to stay. And Malta is coming with us.”