US space agency Nasa has unveiled far-reaching plans for its first moon base that could see people living and working on the lunar surface within six years.

Located at the moon’s south pole, the outpost, which eventually may have sites spread out over hundreds of square kilometres, would be established in a phased approach, which builds capability over time.

The pioneering development was designed to help unlock new scientific discoveries and develop the technologies needed for future deep space missions, including to Mars.

The move follows the record-breaking fly-by of the moon by the Artemis II crew in April, which marked a crucial stepping stone towards a future landing. It also comes amid an intensifying race with China, which was aiming for a crewed lunar landing of its own in 2030.

America’s initial phase towards building a base between now and 2029 would see robotic missions scout the lunar region, test technologies and prepare for surface operations.

This includes plans to deploy drones to help explore and map the challenging terrain as well as remote and crewed lunar vehicles, designed to carry out tasks in the demanding environment.