Advocating for the VIPER Project: A Call to Action on Capitol Hill

When NASA announced the halt of the VIPER project in July 2024, it ignited a firestorm of concern and discontent within the planetary science community.

Many researchers and supporters found it hard to fathom how years of dedicated work could be dismissed without a substantial scientific or engineering justification.

This abrupt termination left numerous early-career scientists grappling with uncertainty regarding their future research trajectories, particularly concerning the essential investigations VIPER was set to conduct. The situation was compounded for international researchers in the U.S., who faced anxieties about the implications for their visas, funding, and professional prospects.

A Multi-Faceted Approach to Advocacy

In response to NASA’s decision, our strategy to contest the cancellation was comprehensive and determined. The first step involved orchestrating an open letter directed to Congress, urging them to oppose NASA’s authorization of the termination. This letter garnered support from over 5,000 individuals globally, reflecting a united front in favor of the mission. The second step was a collaboration with The Astro Touring, engaging directly with policymakers on Capitol Hill through targeted advocacy efforts. Given NASA’s expressed intention to dismantle the rover if it didn’t find a buyer, we understood that direct dialogue with congressional members and their aides was essential for our cause.

Learning the Ropes of Advocacy

As newcomers to the realm of U.S. space policy, we initially felt uncertain about how best to advocate for the VIPER project. Fortunately, The Astro Touring provided vital training and resources, equipping us to effectively communicate our mission.

They guided us in crafting persuasive talking points and rehearsed our pitches until we felt prepared. The overwhelming support from the broader community invigorated our efforts, pushing us to carry that energy into our discussions.

Navigating Capitol Hill

Our preparation for the campaign on Capitol Hill was thorough. Thanks to The Astro Touring, we developed data-centric briefings tailored to resonate with congressional staff across the political spectrum. We aimed to align our mission with their legislative interests, creating a compelling case for the VIPER project.

Our schedule was packed :

we had thirteen meetings condensed into just two days, a true test of endurance and focus.

As we entered our initial briefing, our initial anxiety transformed into an exhilarating awareness that we were engaging with the key figures shaping national space policy and budget allocations. These discussions required us to be mentally agile, shifting seamlessly between technical details and political strategy as we sought to instill enthusiasm for VIPER a lunar rover emblematic of countless careers and a pivotal step toward humanity’s lunar return.

The Campaign Experience

Navigating the intricate network of House and Senate offices was akin to a military operation. We dashed through the Capitol’s underground tunnels, even utilizing the Capitol Subway to transition swiftly between meetings. Each dialogue demanded renewed energy and a tailored approach, ensuring our message resonated with each office’s distinct political climate.

Though the campaign left us exhausted, we emerged with a profound belief in the efficacy of informed advocacy. Our experience reinforced the notion that when you passionately support a cause, it’s possible to effect change perhaps even paving the way for a rover to explore new worlds.

The Importance of Lunar Science

As advocates for lunar science gathered at the United States Capitol in October 2024, the message was clear: we must stand firm for our future in space. The VIPER project symbolizes not just a technological endeavor, but a beacon of hope for scientific discovery and exploration.

Get Involved!
If you believe in the importance of space exploration, consider supporting these efforts. Generous donors will match your contributions up to $75,000, amplifying the impact of your advocacy.

Together, we can champion the cause of lunar exploration and ensure that vital projects like VIPER continue to thrive. Our future in space depends on it!