Masten Space Systems to Build Lunar GPS Network

Lunar GPS: Masten Space Systems' Navigation Initiative

Masten Space Systems, an innovative startup, is actively developing a lunar navigation and positioning system with a projected deployment date in 2023. This system is intended to function similarly to the Global Positioning System (GPS) utilized on Earth.

AFWERX Contract and System Uniqueness

The development of this prototype is being undertaken as a direct result of a contract secured through the Air Force Research Laboratory’s AFWERX program. Upon its implementation, this will represent the first navigational system of its kind operating beyond Earth’s orbit.

Current Lunar Navigation Challenges

Historically, spacecraft traveling to the moon have been required to carry their own onboard equipment for hazard detection and navigational assistance. The infrequent nature of lunar missions – despite a limited number of crewed and uncrewed landings – has, until now, diminished the need for a standardized, shared navigation infrastructure.

The Growing Need for Lunar Navigation

However, the decreasing costs associated with space travel, largely due to advancements in launch technologies pioneered by companies such as SpaceX, are poised to significantly increase activity in space. Numerous private enterprises and national space agencies are now focusing their efforts on lunar exploration.

Masten Space Systems was selected by NASA to facilitate the delivery of both commercial and private payloads to a location near the Haworth Crater, situated at the lunar south pole. Originally planned for December 2022, this mission has been rescheduled for November 2023.

NASA's Artemis Program and Future Missions

NASA’s Artemis program represents another significant undertaking, aiming to land two astronauts on the lunar surface in 2024. An increase in the frequency of these types of missions in the coming decades will undoubtedly elevate the necessity for a common navigation network.

Operating "In the Dark"

“Lunar spacecraft and orbital assets are essentially operating in the dark, unlike Earth, which is equipped with GPS,” explained Matthew Kuhns, VP of research and development at Masten, in an official statement.

How the System Will Function

The proposed system will operate through the deployment of position, navigation, and timing (PNT) beacons onto the lunar surface by spacecraft. These beacons will establish a surface-based network, broadcasting a radio signal. This signal will allow spacecraft and other orbital assets to connect wirelessly for precise navigation, timing, and location tracking.

Project Phases and Beacon Development

Phase I of the project, involving the completion of the concept design for the PNT beacons, has already been successfully concluded. The primary engineering challenge now lies within Phase II, which focuses on the actual development of the PNT beacons themselves.

Given the demanding lunar environment, these beacons must be exceptionally durable. Masten is collaborating with Leidos, a defense and technology company, to construct shock-proof enclosures for the beacons. Completion of Phase II is targeted for 2023.

Benefits of a Lunar Navigation Network

“Establishing a shared navigation network on the moon has the potential to reduce spacecraft costs by millions of dollars, enhance payload capacity, and improve landing precision, particularly near the moon’s most resource-rich areas,” stated Kuhns.