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ESA eyes repurposed lunar comms asset
29 Jul
Summary
- ESA is assessing repurposing NASA's Lunar Link for lunar communication.
- Studies will explore using existing satellite platforms for the mission.
- A launch target of Q4 2029 is being considered for the repurposed system.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is exploring the feasibility of repurposing Lunar Link, a communications system created for NASA's Gateway space station. This initiative follows NASA's decision to pause the Gateway deployment, prompting ESA to investigate alternative uses for the developed hardware. ESA has initiated tender studies to assess Lunar Link's potential as a standalone communication asset in cislunar space.
These studies will prioritize the use of already qualified satellite platforms requiring minimal modifications. The goal is to determine if Lunar Link could complement ESA's Moonlight program, a planned constellation for lunar communications and navigation. The flight hardware for Lunar Link is reportedly in an advanced stage of development and has completed crucial testing.
The feasibility studies, expected to last up to 12 months, will investigate potential lunar orbits and spacecraft configurations. Contractors will also examine the possibility of including secondary 'payloads of opportunity.' Development schedules and cost estimates will be outlined, with a potential launch target set for the fourth quarter of 2029.
