To the Moon: Viasat Selected to Design Lunar Orbiting Satellite System Alongside Telespazio

Core Viewpoint - Viasat is set to lead the lunar orbiting satellite communications segment of the European Space Agency's Moonlight Program, collaborating with Telespazio and various European and UK companies to establish Europe's first lunar orbiting satellite network [1][2][3] Group 1: Project Overview - The Moonlight program aims to develop a lunar orbiting Navigation and Communication system to enhance navigation and communication services for both European and international missions on the Moon's surface and in lunar orbit [3] - The communications system will function as a data highway for communication between Earth and the Moon, facilitating interactions among people, spacecraft, and lunar vehicles to support scientific and exploration projects [4] Group 2: Viasat's Role - Viasat is responsible for designing and developing the communication network, defining end-to-end communication services for lunar landers, rovers, orbiters, and other technologies [5] - The initial design phase of the communication system is fully funded by the European Space Agency, with Viasat's engineering and technology operations based in London [11] Group 3: Timeline and Phases - The Moonlight services will be deployed in phases, with initial capabilities expected by the end of 2028 and full operations targeted for 2030 [6] Group 4: Industry Impact - The Moonlight initiative is expected to showcase Viasat's and the UK's leadership in emerging commercial markets, particularly the lunar economy, by providing reliable navigation and communication services for future lunar missions [7][8] - The program is anticipated to support additional commercial activities on the Moon, including space tourism and manufacturing programs utilizing rare lunar materials [4]