Intuitive Machines Selected by JPL to Build Spacecraft for Earth Observation Mission

Intuitive Machines has been selected by NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory to provide the spacecraft platform, system-level integration, and mission solutions for EAGLE-VSWIR, an Earth observation mission under NASA’s Earth Science Division.

The mission is targeted for launch in 2028 aboard Intuitive Machines’ IM 300 spacecraft bus.

EAGLE-VSWIR will carry a hyperspectral visible-to-shortwave infrared instrument developed at JPL to study surface biology and geology from Earth orbit. The mission will also demonstrate technologies intended to support future exploration of the Moon and Mars.

Intuitive Machines will provide the IM 300 platform, integrate the VSWIR instrument, and manage mission operations and the ground segment.

The award represents the company's second NASA low Earth orbit science mission, following its selection to provide the IM 500 spacecraft bus and system-level integration for NASA’s EDGE mission.

Anand Mahendra, Chief Growth Officer at Intuitive Machines, said the company’s spacecraft platforms are designed to support faster and more cost-constrained science missions. He added that the company’s manufacturing and integration capabilities can support civil, commercial, and national security missions.

Image Credits: Intuitive Machines