ESA Launches Moonlight Programme for Lunar Communications and Navigation

The European Space Agency (ESA) has recently launched an ambitious initiative called the Moonlight programme. This groundbreaking programme aims to develop a comprehensive lunar communications and navigation network. The network will be comprised of a constellation of satellites strategically positioned around the Moon.

This initiative is designed to support the anticipated surge in lunar missions, with over 400 missions expected in the next two decades. The establishment of the Moonlight network will play a crucial role in facilitating sustainable lunar exploration and will be instrumental in the development of a lunar economy.

The Moonlight programme plans to set up infrastructure that will enable precise landings and efficient surface operations. It will also ensure seamless communication between the Earth and the Moon. The goal is to achieve full operational capability by the year 2030, setting the stage for a new era in lunar exploration.