Synopsis
Here is a summary of the key information from the press kit about the Intuitive Machines IM-1 mission:
Overview
- The IM-1 mission is part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative and is scheduled to launch in mid-February 2024.
- The mission will use Intuitive Machines’ Nova-C lander to deliver payloads to the rim of Malapert A crater near the Moon’s south pole.
- There are 12 total payloads on board, including 6 NASA payloads and 6 commercial payloads.
- The NASA payloads will study the lunar environment, demonstrate technologies, and contribute to a lunar laser ranging retroreflector network.
- The mission has a planned duration of about 9 days in transit and 10 days operating on the lunar surface.
Launch Details
- Launch is targeted from LC-39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
- The launch window opens no earlier than mid-February 2024.
- After launch, Nova-C will separate from the rocket and cruise to the Moon over about 7 days before entering lunar orbit.
Landing
- Nova-C will land on the rim of Malapert A crater near the lunar south pole after a powered descent.
- Landing is targeted for February 22, 2024 after about 1 day in lunar orbit.
Payloads
- NASA Payloads: LN-1, SCALPSS, ROLSES, NDL, RFMG, LRA
- Commercial Payloads: ILO-X, Lunagram, Jeff Koons Art Cube, EagleCAM, and others
The success of IM-1 will help demonstrate commercial lunar landing capabilities, deliver new science about the Moon, and lay the groundwork for future Artemis missions.
