Exciting news, Canada! Our very first lunar rover is gearing up for its expedition to the Moon's south pole in the coming years, aiming to uncover vital water ice. But before this trailblazing robot embarks on its mission, it needs your help to find its official name!

Exploring beyond Earth is not just about curiosity but a necessity. For future space missions to thrive on the Moon, Mars, and other celestial bodies, we must harness off-world resources like metals, minerals, and most critically, water. Water will be essential for drinking, growing food, generating oxygen, and even powering future spacecraft—a crucial element for sustainable space exploration.

While Mars has shown signs of ice, it's still too far to utilize effectively. Given the vast distance of comets and the uncertainty of their availability, the Moon presents a more accessible opportunity to secure this life-sustaining resource.

NASA’s recent maps have highlighted craters at the lunar south pole, shrouded in eternal darkness, as the most promising candidates for containing water ice deposits (see the blue areas marked on the lunar map). These harsh, cold craters are our treasure troves, and the anticipation is mounting for the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) as they prepare to send a rover to survey these regions.

Dr. Gordon Osinski, principal investigator of the mission from Western University, remarks, "We haven't chosen an easy mission for Canada's first trip to the moon. We are sending our rover to one of the Moon’s most inhospitable terrains: the South Pole. The rover will have to withstand extended periods of extreme cold, with temperatures plunging below minus 200°C for days."

To overcome the challenges posed by the frigid lunar environment, the rover will be equipped with essential gear, including lights and heaters, ensuring it can operate even in harsh conditions. This mission promises to break new ground in lunar exploration as Canada joins the ranks of nations exploring the mysteries of the Moon.

Now, the great naming contest is open! From now until December 20, 2024, the Canadian public can vote for one of four carefully selected names for our spacebound hero:

1. Athabasca:

Named after the river flowing through Alberta, this name pays homage to Canada's rich natural heritage. It symbolizes the routes of discovery that have shaped our history and could inspire future names for Canadian space missions that honor our country's natural wonders.

2. Courage:

This name embodies bravery and determination, echoing the naming conventions adopted by NASA, which have featured qualities such as Spirit and Perseverance. As the rover prepares to confront the challenges of the uncharted lunar terrain, this name reflects the daring spirit of the mission team.

3. Glacier:

An apt choice given the mission's goal of finding water ice, this name resonates with Canada's northern identity and emphasizes our connection to the natural world, especially considering the significance of glaciers in the Canadian landscape.

This naming contest not only builds excitement around Canada's lunar ambitions but also allows everyone to be a part of this historical journey. Don’t miss your chance to help name the rover that could pave the way for humanity’s future in space!