Direct From the Moon: must-see TV tonight explores past, present, future of lunar missions

Last week, a brilliant orange moon saluted the launch of the STS-126 mission, a reminder that once we have touched lunar soil--and that we will again.

The National Geographic Channel tonight explores the past, present, and future of lunar expeditions. With Direct From the Moon, part of Expedition Week, NGC returns us to Apollo days, presents stunning images from the current Japanese Kaguya lunar orbiter, and looks ahead to future moon missions.

Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin enthralled the nation when they became the first men to land on the moon.  Nearly 40 years later, lunar exploration has returned to the headlines as scientists are uncovering a treasure trove of information from the moon about the birth of our solar system. 

Now, high-definition video of the moon's surface is being beamed directly back from just above the moon, unveiling the astonishing lunar terrain in spectacular detail thanks to Kaguya, a Japanese lunar orbiter launched in September 2007.  Custom-built to map the lunar surface and measure the moon's magnetic and gravitational fields, Kaguya will also allow scientists to perform pioneering analysis, setting the groundwork for future missions to the moon and a prolonged lunar base. 

We also hear directly from Aldrin as he watches breathtaking images of the moon's craters, haunting plains and an actual "full Earth-rise." Then, NASA scientists discuss the challenges involved and innovations under way for establishing a lunar outpost.  Direct from the Moon features images so powerful, some scientists claim they will inspire the next generation of lunar exploration.

 The show airs at 9 p.m. EST.  The website link offers preview videos plus free wallpaper and screen savers.  

Image credit: JAXA / NHK/NGC