Moonlight Programme

Current Context : The European Space Agency (ESA) launched the Moonlight Lunar Communications and Navigation Services (LCNS) program at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan.

• This initiative is designed to support over 400 planned lunar missions in the coming years, including those by space agencies and private companies.​

ABOUT MOONLIGHT PROGRAMME:

• Objective: Establish a satellite network for communication and navigation between Earth and the Moon to support lunar missions​.
• Satellite Constellation: The program will consist of five satellites—one for high-speed communications and four for navigation. It will ensure coverage across distances of up to 400,000 kilometers between Earth and the Moon
• Focus Area: Targets the Moon’s South Pole, a crucial site due to potential water ice reserves and stable solar power conditions.
• Timeline:
  • 2026: Launch of Lunar Pathfinder (communications relay).
  • 2028: Initial services begin.
  • 2030: Full operational capacity​
• Collaboration: Partners with NASA and JAXA through LunaNet for standardizing lunar communication​