New small spacecraft technology demonstration mission on the Moon0

• Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate, Ames Research Center, Research and Technology Mission Directorate, SCIENCE, Science / Health, Science Mission Directorate, scientists, Small Spacecraft Technology Program, Space, Space Communications & Navigation Program, Space Launch System (SLS), Space Technology Mission Directorate, Space Telescope, space-x-ipo, SpaceX, Technology
• July 24, 2026

NASA is working with industry to advance the next phase of cislunar infrastructure for the agency’s Artemis and Lunar Base program, including orbital assets and demonstrations. Under a contract awarded to Advanced Space, the agency’s CAPSTONE 02 mission will demonstrate rendezvous and proximity operations, autonomous navigation, and cislunar communication capabilities while continuing to characterize the