Goodyear returns to the moon to make the tires for the Artemis rover.

Goodyear, one of the world’s leading tire manufacturers, has announced it will return to the Moon as part of NASA's Artemis program. The company will develop specialized tires for the Pegasus Lunar Terrain Vehicle, a rover designed by Lunar Outpost to accompany astronauts during missions to the lunar south pole beginning in 2028. These tires will enable the vehicle to navigate some of the most challenging terrain on the Moon, allowing crews to travel longer distances and conduct extended scientific research. The Pegasus rover is intended to operate in extreme conditions, including dramatic temperature fluctuations, rocky surfaces, abrasive dust, low gravity, and the absence of an atmosphere. To meet these demands, Goodyear will create a custom solution drawing on its century-long expertise in high-performance technology. This marks a continuation of the company's legacy in space exploration, as it previously contributed to the Apollo missions, leaving behind tire imprints on the Moon’s surface. Chris Helsel, Goodyear’s Senior Vice President and Chief Technical Officer, emphasized the company’s long-standing commitment to innovation and safety. “From land speed records to the most demanding racing circuits, and now to the lunar surface, Goodyear’s innovations have helped people travel safely for more than 125 years,” he stated. The experience gained during the Apollo era continues to inform the development of new technologies for the Artemis program. The Pegasus project brings together diverse expertise from multiple sectors. Lunar Outpost leads the rover’s design and development, while General Motors contributes its automotive engineering knowledge. Leidos provides aerospace and defense capabilities, ensuring the vehicle meets the rigorous standards required for lunar operations. This collaboration underscores the complexity and interdisciplinary nature of modern space exploration efforts. Goodyear operates a global network with approximately 63,000 employees across 19 countries, including two research and development centers located in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg. From 2028 onward, the company’s technological advancements will support activities beyond Earth, extending its influence into the realm of lunar exploration. The Artemis program aims to establish a sustainable presence on the Moon, with the goal of returning humans to the lunar surface by the mid-2020s. The Pegasus rover represents a key component of this initiative, offering mobility solutions tailored for the unique challenges of lunar environments. As the project progresses, Goodyear’s involvement highlights the growing role of private industry in advancing space exploration. With its innovative approach and historical ties to space travel, the company stands ready to contribute to humanity’s continued journey beyond our planet.