As of 2025, which space mission is considered a major milestone?

The designation of a major milestone in space exploration as a recent or ongoing notable space mission reflects the rapidly evolving landscape of space science. As of 2025, numerous missions are underway that have significant implications for our understanding of the universe, including the exploration of outer planets, astrobiology, and potential human habitation on other celestial bodies.

Recent missions, such as those targeting Mars for further exploration or the continued developments and collaborations related to the Lunar Gateway and the Artemis program, represent pivotal advancements in human spaceflight and interplanetary research. These missions are not just confined to theoretical plans; they actively contribute to the scientific community’s knowledge and capabilities in space exploration.

While the James Webb Space Telescope represents a monumental achievement in astronomical observation, it is more a reflection of past accomplishments since its launch in late 2021. Similarly, the Lunar Gateway Project is a significant venture for future lunar exploration, but its status may not be classified as a major current milestone compared to the ongoing missions that are achieving tangible results and pushing the boundaries of our explorations in real time.

Thus, recognizing the ongoing and recent notable space missions as a major milestone aligns with the understanding that space exploration is a continuous process where new discoveries and advancements are integrated regularly into the broader narrative of