Fugro Australia’s Space Automation, AI, and Robotics Control Complex (SpAARC) has unveiled its first lunar terrain vehicle (LTV) prototype, named Moon RACER, at NASA’s Houston Space Centre.
This follows SpAARC entering into an agreement with Intuitive Machines earlier this year to develop the LTV. Fugro’s efforts focus on software architecture, mission planning tools and mission operations for the feasibility assessment, with SpAARC to serve as a Southern Hemisphere Mission Control hub in Australia.
This effort is part of NASA’s Artemis campaign, which includes collaborating with commercial and international partners to establish the first long-term presence on the Moon. The LTV award leverages NASA’s expertise in developing and operating rovers to build commercial capabilities that support science discovery and long-term human exploration on the Moon.
The Moon RACER LTV is intended to be an advanced exploration rover equipped with autonomous driving, innovative power management, and cutting-edge communications and navigation systems. Designed to operate during both crewed and uncrewed missions, the rover may conduct science, transport cargo, and ensure crew and equipment safety. During uncrewed periods, the team expects to operate remotely, maximising scientific returns between astronaut missions.
“We are proud to partner with Intuitive Machines on the Lunar Terrain Vehicle as part of NASA’s Artemis campaign,” said Fugro SpAARC Director Sam Forbes. “This partnership builds on our expertise in remote and autonomous operations and is an exciting opportunity to demonstrate Fugro’s capabilities in supporting lunar surface operations. It’s a privilege to contribute, alongside Intuitive Machines, to a mission that will significantly expand human reach and scientific research on the Moon.”
“Our ongoing partnership, including SpAARC’s support for our upcoming IM-2 mission to the Lunar South Pole region, is key to achieving our goal of advancing lunar exploration,” said Intuitive Machines Co-founder Tim Crain. “Fugro’s expertise in remote and autonomous operations is essential to the success of Moon RACER and will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of lunar exploration.”
