Last week, after a 52-year hiatus, we returned to the moon. The historic moon landing, a monumental achievement not just for the United States but for humanity as a whole, has reignited a sense of wonder, ambition, and pride across the nation. The landing marks a new chapter in space exploration. For the state of Georgia, this mission holds particular significance, underscoring the state’s role in advancing aerospace technology and inspiring future generations.
On Thursday, February 22nd, an unmanned lander built and operated by Intuitive Machines, an aerospace robotics company, successfully landed on the South Pole of the moon. This marks several firsts: the first U.S. Moon Landing since 1972, the first moon-landing ever on the South Pole, and the first ever moon landing by a private entity. Intuitive Machines joins an exclusive club of lunar travelers: The U.S., U.S.S.R/Russia, China, India, and most recently, Japan.
The American spirit, characterized by its relentless pursuit of the unknown and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of human ability, was on full display as the world watched the live stream from the lander control room in Houston, Texas. This mission, building on the legacy of the Apollo missions, illustrates America’s dedication to taking the lead in space exploration. It represents the culmination of years of hard work, technological innovation, and collaborative effort among the country’s best and brightest.
Georgia, with its robust aerospace sector, plays a pivotal role in this renewed era of lunar exploration. The state’s aerospace industry, one of the most dynamic in the nation, contributes significantly to the design, manufacture, and innovation of technology used in space missions. Companies and research institutions across Georgia, such as Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, Lockheed Martin, and Gulfstream, are at the forefront of developing the cutting-edge technology that made this moon landing possible, from propulsion systems, to solar arrays, to cameras and antennas capable of transmitting to and from space. This involvement highlights Georgia’s contribution to national achievements and its place in the growing frontier of modern space-travel.
Moreover, the moon landing’s emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education resonates deeply with Georgia’s educational initiatives. The state’s universities and schools have long been advocates for STEM, preparing students for careers in high-tech industries. The success of the moon landing serves as a powerful inspiration for Georgia’s students, illustrating the tangible outcomes of their studies and the exciting possibilities their futures could hold. It emphasizes the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and persistence—essential attributes for the next generation of innovators.
The mission also has significant economic implications for Georgia. Aerospace products are Georgia’s top export and generated $57.5 billion in 2023. The spotlight on space exploration is likely to drive further investment in aerospace, offering new opportunities for growth and innovation. GA is at the forefront of this new Space Race at the perfect time to be there.
As we reflect on last week’s moon landing, it’s clear that the mission is more than a technological triumph; it’s a testament to the American spirit—a spirit that thrives in Georgia. It’s a reminder that exploration and innovation are not just about reaching new worlds but about inspiring, uniting, and lifting humanity. Space is often called “the last frontier,” but for Georgia, and America, the sky is only the beginning. This moon landing is not just a step forward in space exploration; it’s a leap for mankind, propelling us into a future full of promise and potential.
Drew S. Cagle, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Political Science in the Department of Social Sciences at College of Coastal Georgia. He is an associate scholar at the Reg Murphy Center for Economic and Policy Studies. He can be reached by email at dcagle@ccga.edu.
Reg Murphy Center