Astrobotic’s Peregrine lander, tasked with a lunar burial, encountered a catastrophic fate as it burned up upon reentry into Earth’s atmosphere, leading to the disintegration of the remains and DNA of over 70 deceased individuals. The controversial mission drew attention when the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American tribe in the U.S., opposed the lunar burial plan, deeming it a “profound desecration” and urging NASA to address their concerns.
The tribal objection prompted a last-minute meeting before the launch, but despite efforts, the Peregrine, hitched to the United Launch Alliance’s Vulcan rocket, retained the memorial capsules. Mid-flight, Astrobotic faced propulsion system issues, leading to a critical propellant leak that dashed hopes of a lunar touchdown. Navajo Nation, while acknowledging relief that human remains wouldn’t reach the moon, emphasized their specific objection to including such remains in missions designated for the sacred lunar surface.
Astrobotic, compelled to abandon the moon landing, sought to maneuver the uncrewed craft as close to the moon as possible. Eventually, the decision was made to let Peregrine burn up during Earth reentry, ensuring a crash into the remote Pacific Ocean to avoid potential space-related issues. The failure marked a setback in achieving the first U.S. craft contact with the moon since 1972, potentially contributing valuable data for NASA’s Artemis missions.
Among the payload aboard Peregrine were science instruments from NASA, focusing on lunar exploration ahead of Artemis missions. Additionally, human remains, including those of “Star Trek” creator Gene Roddenberry and writer Arthur C. Clarke, were part of the memorial spaceflight mission managed by Celestis, a spaceflight memorial company. Another firm, Elysium, also arranged for cremated remains and DNA placement.
Despite the mission’s termination, Celestis CEO Charles M. Chafer expressed satisfaction with accomplishing contractual obligations and emphasized the scientific contributions made. He noted the clients’ understanding and acceptance of spaceflight risks and confirmed their willingness to partake in future lunar missions.
Celestis plans to offer more lunar memorial flights, with its next mission scheduled for late 2025. Clients from the failed Tranquility Flight have the option to include additional remains in subsequent missions. Navajo Nation remains steadfast in its objection to lunar missions involving human remains, urging continued consultation on lunar treatment and echoing the need for protective practices, akin to safeguarding revered Earth sites.
The failed Peregrine mission reflects the complex intersection of scientific exploration, cultural sensitivities, and commercial ventures in space. As space endeavors evolve, addressing concerns from diverse perspectives becomes increasingly crucial, highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue and collaboration in lunar and celestial exploration.