"Preserving Moon Sites for Advancing Astronomy and Exploration"

Astronomers are urging the protection of prime lunar sites, known as sites of extraordinary scientific importance (Sesis), from potential damage caused by upcoming missions, including navigation and communications satellites, rovers, and mining operations. These sites are ideal for advanced instruments that could unveil the secrets of the universe, such as radio telescopes to observe the cosmic dark ages and search for signs of alien life, as well as infra-red telescopes to image Earth-sized planets around distant stars. Without coordinated protection, clashes and interference from lunar activities could jeopardize these unique opportunities for astronomical research.