Intuitive Machines' IM-1 private Moon mission aims for launch on Feb 14

Intuitive Machines' IM-1 flight (Image credit: NASA Website)

Intuitive Machines is embarking on a big space adventure to be one of the first commercial companies to execute a soft landing on the lunar surface. Their IM-1 mission, scheduled for launch on February 14 via SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, will use their Nova-C class lunar lander named Odysseus to transport a diverse payload of commercial and NASA science instruments to the Moon.

The mission aims to pioneer a commercial lunar economy. Intuitive Machines expects Odysseus to touch down on the Moon approximately nine days after blasting off.

The Nova-C lunar lander, which uses a special mix of liquid oxygen and liquid methane to move around, is made by Intuitive Machines.

IM-1 Mission aims to be a pioneer in commercial lunar exploration

The primary objective of the IM-1 mission is to deliver a diverse payload to the Moon's south pole region, an uncharted territory, and pave the way for future human and robotic lunar exploration.

Through NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative, Intuitive Machines is a key player in the space agency's lunar exploration efforts.

A turning point for lunar economy

The success of the IM-1 mission is poised to be a groundbreaking moment, not only for private enterprises but also for space exploration. It sets the stage for an emerging lunar economy, paving the way for expanded research and exploration. The insights gained from this mission will be crucial for shaping the future of lunar missions and beyond.

If the IM-1 mission goes well, it will open the door to lots of possibilities like more research, new businesses, and even people living on the Moon, and propel private industry into the lunar arena.

Where is it landing?

The landing spot for IM-1 is in a place called Malapert A, located about 300 km from the Moon's south pole. Scientists are thinking about this spot for NASA’s big Artemis III moon mission.

Nine task orders awarded by NASA under CLPS

Under the CLPS initiative, NASA presently holds contracts with 14 providers, all qualified to bid on task orders. As of now, NASA has granted nine task orders to five providers, facilitating the delivery of more than 40 payloads to the Moon's surface, scheduled between 2024 and 2025.