Posted: Fri, Dec 7, 2012, 7:35 AM ET (1235 GMT)
A startup company announced Thursday it plans to offer human missions to the surface of the Moon as soon as the end of this decade for $1.5 billion a trip. Golden Spike said it has developed mission architectures that make use of existing launch vehicles and spacecraft, along with newly-designed landers and other components, that can be developed for $7-8 billion and start flying by 2020. The company, which said it is still in its earliest stages, is primarily focused on national space agencies, but also expects interest from individuals or companies. The company has attracted a wide range of experienced directors and advisors, but said reports it had lined up billionaire investors were incorrect.

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