NASA's ambition for a permanent human presence on the Moon necessitates continuous communication capabilities, prompting the development of the Near Space Network and satellite constellations.
Intuitive Machines is tasked with building a satellite constellation for lunar navigation and communication, a crucial step for future missions, given current direct line restrictions.
The contract awarded to Intuitive Machines has a maximum value of $4.82 billion over five years, but guarantees $150 million, highlighting the uncertainties of space contracting.
With the goal of landing humans on the Moon's south pole soon, satellite relays are critical as that area poses challenges for direct communication with Earth.
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