Moon Base Discussed By NASA And Private Space Tech Company [VIDEO]

NASA and Bigelow Aerospace, a private space technology company, are reportedly in talks that include the possibility of building a base on the moon.

Talk of a moon base is among the possibilities being discussed by NASA and Bigelow, which have "agreed to look at ways for private ventures to contribute to human exploration missions," according to NBC News' Cosmic Log.

Bigelow Aerospace, a Nevada-based company founded by billionaire Robert Bigelow, makes has ambitious objectives for outer space, including a lunar base, space stations and orbiting supply depots.

Cosmic Log reports no money will change hands in the agreement between NASA and Bigelow, which was signed in March, but the groups will discuss possible cooperative efforts, which could result in NASA buying or leasing facilities from private space outfits like Bigelow.

In a statement, NASA reiterated its intent to not lead any manned moon missions in the future, while remaining optimistic about joint ventures with the private sector.

"[The Space Act Agreement with Bigelow Aerospace] will provide important information on possible ways to expand our exploration capabilities in partnership with the private sector," said David Weaver, NASA Associate Administrator for the Office of Communications. "The agency is intensely focused on a bold mission to identify, relocate and explore an asteroid with American astronauts by 2025 - all as we prepare for an even more ambitious human mission to Mars in the 2030s. NASA has no plans for a human mission to the moon."

The blog SpaceIndustryNews obtained some photos of what a possible NASA/Bigelow moon base might look like.