The IM-2 mission will carry NASA tech to the Moon, including a drill for resource detection and a drone for surface mobility, launching Feb. 26.
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| As part of NASA's CLPS (Commercial Lunar Payload Services) initiative and Artemis campaign, Intuitive Machines' second delivery to the Moon will carry NASA technology demonstrations and science investigations on their Nova-C class lunar lander. Image Credit: Intuitive Machine |
Washington, USA — February 1, 2025:
NASA's next lunar mission, featuring the Intuitive Machines' Athena lander, is set to launch on a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four-day launch window opens no earlier than February 26, 2025.
The mission, part of NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative and Artemis campaign, aims to advance lunar exploration and establish a long-term human presence on the Moon. Ahead of the launch, NASA will host a media teleconference on February 7 at 1 p.m. EST to discuss the scientific and technological experiments aboard the mission.
The IM-2 mission, carrying the Athena lander, will conduct one of the first in-situ resource utilization demonstrations on the Moon. A drill and mass spectrometer will analyze potential volatile elements or gases in the lunar soil at Mons Mouton, a plateau near the Moon's South Pole. Additionally, a Laser Retroreflector Array on the lander will provide future spacecraft with a permanent reference point on the lunar surface.
The lander will also carry advanced technology to improve lunar surface communications and deploy a propulsive drone capable of hopping across the Moon’s terrain.
As part of the launch, NASA’s Lunar Trailblazer spacecraft will also begin its journey to orbit the Moon. The spacecraft will map the distribution of water in different forms across the lunar surface, aiding future lunar exploration and habitation efforts.
Under the CLPS model, NASA is investing in commercial partnerships to enable a sustainable lunar economy. While NASA is a primary customer for these deliveries, the program fosters private-sector participation in Moon exploration.
With the upcoming launch, NASA and its commercial partners are taking a major step toward unlocking the Moon’s resources and advancing future missions to Mars and beyond.