LunaNet

LunaNet DTN Framework

LunaNet is a NASA and ESA project and proposed data network aiming to provide a "Lunar Internet" for cis-lunar spacecraft and installations.[1]

It will be able to store-and-forward data to provide a Delay/Disruption Tolerant Network (DTN). The objective is to avoid needing to preschedule data communications back to Earth.[1]

LunaNet will also offer navigation services, eg. for orbit determination, and navigation on the lunar surface.[1]

Draft interoperability specifications have been issued.[1]

The LunaNet Interoperability Specification (LNIS) is the document which publishes the LunaNet standard. LNIS version 4 was published online in September 12, 2022. LNIS version 5 draft for review was provided online for comment late 2023.[2][3]

  • NASA's instantiation of LunaNet is called Lunar Communication Relay and Navigation System (LCRNS).[4]
  • JAXA's instantiation of LunaNet is called Lunar Navigation Satellite System (LNSS)[4]
  1. ^ a b c d Empowering Artemis with communications and navigation interoperability Oct 2021
  2. ^ LunaNet Interoperability Specification, Space Operations Mission Directorate, NASA
  3. ^ "Moonlight services: seeking feedback for updated LunaNet framework". www.esa.int. Retrieved 2024-04-03.
  4. ^ a b LunaNet: Interoperability for Lunar PNT, Slide 4, International Committee on GNSS, October 17, 2023 Madrin, Spain
  5. ^ Project Moonlight Oct 2021
  6. ^ Moonlight Webinar Mar 2022