NASA is preparing a mission composed of two small satellites capable of locating themselves and maneuvering around the Moon fully autonomously. Named CAPSTONE 02, this mission is to test technologies useful for maneuvers and rendezvous between spacecraft. Its launch is currently planned for 2027.
Operations around the Moon require more autonomy than in low Earth orbit. Communication delays, distances, and the combined influence of Earth and the Moon complicate trajectories. Future crews will nevertheless have to reach lunar landers with great precision.
This mission includes two identical small spacecraft that will help perfect technologies intended to prepare the Artemis programs, Moon Base, and deep space exploration.
Image Terran Orbital
CAPSTONE 02 will use two identical satellites of about 400 kg each designed by Terran Orbital. One will play the role of the chaser, while the other will serve as the target. The roles can then be reversed. This setup will make it possible to test several scenarios of approach, station-keeping, and formation flight.
The vehicles will use ground-based measurements, optical sensors, and the position of celestial bodies to locate themselves. They will also have to determine their relative position without constantly relying on ground stations. This capability builds on and extends the tests carried out by the first CAPSTONE mission.
The first CAPSTONE satellite had validated a so-called near-rectilinear orbit around the Moon. This orbit results from the combined attraction of Earth and its natural satellite. CAPSTONE 02 will move to a next step, focused on coordinated maneuvers between two vehicles.
The mission will carry three navigation software programs developed by NASA. It will also test a camera designed by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. This instrument will help the satellites identify their surroundings and will be able to produce images of the lunar surface.
These tests are intended to reduce dependence on ground teams for routine tasks. They will also help prepare future rendezvous between Orion, lunar orbit stations, and landing modules.