Ad Lunam et Astra et Ultra

The Argo spacecraft lands near the Shackleton crater. Six experienced astronauts--two engineers, a physician, and a lunar geologist--perform routine checks. The Argo flies itself, but two astronauts double as emergency pilots. Chosen by ability alone, these star sailors hail from around the globe; however, their diversity and specialization are not a source of conflict . The astronauts trust and respect one another, and they seek the good and true. Under pressure, they are calm and effective, an essential for accomplishing their mission: installing the first module of the Athenaeum--a shelter, research station, and observatory. Once completed, it will provide living quarters, act as a hub for nearby experiments, and support a telescope. The Shackleton crater is the ideal site for an observatory. It is bathed in constant sunlight for over two hundred Earth days, providing power. Additionally, the moon’s 5° axial tilt, plus the 1.5° tilt of its equator relative to the ecliptic, means that the South Pole periodically faces both towards and away from the Earth--i.e. lunar libration. Thus, an observatory could probe deep space without light interference from the Earth. Since the Moon has no atmosphere to diffuse it, the light from the Sun would have little effect on stargazing. Yet because the crater also repeatedly faces the Earth, the central computer can transmit data without a relay, conserving resources. However, a relay satellite is still necessary in case an emergency occurs while the station faces away from the Earth. Even as spaceflight progresses, the Athenaeum could serve as a waypoint or emergency shelter. However, this is impossible without the teamwork and competence of that original crew. In conclusion, a diverse, experienced team of astronauts with strong moral ties is optimal for the installation of a multi-use station and observatory at an ideal location--the Lunar South Pole.