Researchers from various institutions have unveiled a new method for calculating more efficient routes from Earth to the moon, which could significantly reduce mission costs. By employing advanced computer modeling based on functional connections, the team simulated 30 million potential paths and focused on 280,000 simulations for their study. They discovered a hidden route that leverages gravitational forces from both Earth and the moon, resulting in a fuel consumption reduction of 58.80 meters per second (m/s) compared to previously established routes. This innovative trajectory not only conserves fuel but also ensures uninterrupted communication with Earth, addressing challenges experienced by past missions like Artemis 2, which lost contact while positioned behind the moon. The researchers, led by Allan Kardec de Almeida Júnior from the University of Coimbra in Portugal, noted that their findings could pave the way for further exploration of gravitational influences, including that from the sun, to enhance cost-effectiveness in lunar travel. The study was published on April 10 in the journal Astrodynamics.