LunaNet (Lunar Network)

This article is edited from: Shangguan Yong, Zheng Peng, Zhang Hua, et al. Research on the Current Status and Technical Development of Cislunar Space Navigation[J]. Journal of Telemetry and Remote Sensing, 2026.

This article author: 天疆说

This article source: https://cislunarspace.cn

Background

Since no dedicated positioning and navigation system has been established on the lunar surface, the United States, Europe, and Japan are jointly advancing the research and development of the "LunaNet" project. The goal is to create a dedicated positioning system adapted to the lunar environment, providing high-precision spatial position information support for lunar astronauts and rovers.

Objectives

LunaNet aims to provide:

  • High-precision positioning services on the lunar surface
  • Integrated communication and navigation services
  • Support for crewed lunar landing and uncrewed exploration missions

Relationship with Other Programs

LunaNet has technical cooperation and competition relationships with ESA's Moonlight Initiative and Japan's LNSS. NASA's LNS constellation and ESA's Moonlight constellation will cooperate to achieve resource sharing and complementary performance, jointly supporting the Artemis program.

References

  • Shangguan Yong, Zheng Peng, Zhang Hua, et al. Research on the Current Status and Technical Development of Cislunar Space Navigation[J]. Journal of Telemetry and Remote Sensing, 2026.
  • Zhou Cheng, Gao Yuyue, Qin Wenbo, et al. Development Trends, Target Systems, and Policy Paths for Lunar Base Construction[J]. Chinese Science Bulletin, 2025, 70(21): 3460-3469.