NASA delivered the NavCube3-mini payload to Intuitive Machines on July 13. The payload will be integrated into Altus-1, Intuitive Machines' first lunar relay satellite.
NavCube3-mini is about half the size of a shoebox and operates on less than 20 watts of power.
Weight of NASA's NavCube3-mini navigation payload.
The payload is a navigation receiver designed to use signals from Earth-based GPS and Galileo Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) at lunar distances. It can determine a spacecraft's precise position far beyond Earth orbit.
The technology was developed at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, U.S. At Goddard, the payload underwent environmental testing, including vibration testing, thermal vacuum testing, and electromagnetic compatibility testing.
Altus-1 is the first of a planned network of lunar relay satellites being developed under Intuitive Machines' Near Space Network Services contract with NASA. The network will provide support for missions in the lunar South Pole region.
The lunar relays are designed to enable communications and navigation for astronauts and rovers operating at NASA's future Moon Base. Aboard Altus-1, NavCube3-mini will serve as a technology demonstration to validate GNSS-based navigation in the lunar region.
Artemis astronauts are scheduled to land in the lunar South Pole region in 2028.
