Lucknow: In a groundbreaking move, the World Monuments Fund (WMF) has added the Moon to its prestigious list of cultural heritage sites for 2025. The Moon now joins the ranks of 25 endangered heritage sites globally that require urgent attention. This inclusion comes as a result of the increasing threats to over 90 historical lunar sites due to the new space age and humanity’s growing presence on the Moon.
Why the Moon is on the Watch List
The World Monuments Fund’s 2025 Watch List highlights the Moon’s significance as a host for various historic lunar sites, particularly those linked to human space exploration. Notable among these sites is Tranquility Base, where humans first set foot on the Moon during the Apollo 11 mission. According to the Fund, the landing site still preserves astronaut Neil Armstrong’s boot prints and over 100 other artifacts related to the Apollo 11 mission.
Benedict, the WMF’s Chief Executive, explained that the Moon was added to the list due to the “rapidly increasing lunar activities” taking place. These activities, combined with the absence of protection protocols, place the Moon’s heritage sites in grave danger. The report also notes that human and robotic activities on the Moon are on the rise, with NASA’s Artemis program working toward establishing a stable lunar base by 2025.
Increasing Threats to the Moon’s Heritage Sites
Historical items left on the Moon, such as the camera used to capture images of the lunar landing, a memorial disc left by astronauts Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin, and hundreds of other artifacts, symbolize humanity’s lunar legacy. However, these sites face growing challenges due to the rapid acceleration of lunar activities and the lack of proper conservation measures.
WMF’s Watch List was first launched in 1996, and since then, it has supported nearly 350 sites through projects funded by more than $120 million. These projects, with additional visibility, have generated an extra $300 million in funds. The Fund’s efforts have focused on preserving sites under threat from climate change, overtourism, natural disasters, and conflicts.
Other Sites on the 2025 Watch List
Alongside the Moon, the WMF 2025 Watch List includes several other sites facing urgent threats. These include the historic structures of Gaza, which are at risk due to ongoing conflict with Israel and the region’s cultural heritage, including mosques and churches. The list also highlights Kyiv’s Teacher’s House, which has been heavily damaged and serves as a symbol of the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on Ukrainian communities and heritage.
With the inclusion of the Moon, the World Monuments Fund continues its commitment to protecting cultural sites under threat, ensuring that these historic locations are preserved for future generations.
