Visualization of an Intuitive Machines lunar data services network. Photo: Intuitive Machines

NASA awarded Intuitive Machines a contract to support the agency’s lunar relay systems as part of the Near Space Network. As part of this contract, Intuitive Machines plans to deploy a lunar satellite constellation to provide communication and navigation services for NASA’s Artemis activities on the Moon. 

NASA announced the award for “Subcategory 2.2 Geostationary Orbit to Cislunar Relay Services” on Tuesday. It is a new firm-fixed-price, multiple award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity task order contract. The contract has a base period of five years with an additional five-year option period, with a maximum potential value of $4.82 billion. 

Intuitive Machines has ordered data relay satellites, called Khon, under contract with York Space Systems under a deal announced in 2021. 

Lunar relay is part of NASA’s communication strategy for the Artemis program. The relays will provide communication and navigation services for the exploration and scientific study of the Moon’s South Pole region. NASA said that lunar relay services will likely be used with human landing systems, the lunar terrain vehicle, and Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) flights.

The initial task award will support validating lunar relay capabilities/services for Artemis. As lunar relay services become fully operational, they will be integrated into the Near Space Network’s expanding portfolio. 

“This contract marks an inflection point in Intuitive Machines’ leadership in space communications and navigation,” said Intuitive Machines CEO Steve Altemus. “We’re pleased to partner with NASA, as one team, to support the Artemis campaign and endeavors to expand the lunar economy.”