Lockheed Martin to develop Moon-to-Earth satellite communications network

Lockheed Martin has announced the creation of Crescent Space, a new spinoff dedicated to lunar infrastructure. Its first project is a Moon-to-Earth satellite network called Parsec, which will use a constellation of small lunar satellites to provide a non-stop connection between astronauts, their equipment, and people back on Earth. The system will also provide navigation assistance.

The technology is designed to help explorers keep in touch and assist with spacecraft course changes, but it could prove even more important for those on the lunar surface. Parsec’s nodes will create a lunar version of GPS, allowing astronauts to know their exact positions and the direction back to their base. This will be especially important for rover crews to avoid driving into dangerous craters.

Crescent plans to have its first Parsec nodes operational by 2025, with Lockheed Martin providing the satellites. CEO Joe Landon said the company is “well positioned” to support NASA’s Artemis Moon landings and other exploratory missions.

The announcement comes at a time of renewed interest in the Moon, with national efforts from the US and China, as well as private projects like SpaceX’s lunar tourism. By developing technology for lunar infrastructure, Lockheed Martin is positioning itself to profit from this growing interest without disrupting its existing businesses.