The purpose of the LunaNet Interoperability Specification (LNIS) is to define a framework of mutually agreed-upon standards and interfaces that when applied by service providers results in a cooperative network supporting missions in transit to, around, and on the Moon. The framework would apply to communication transmission services for science, exploration, and commercial operations, distribution of position, navigation, and timing (PNT) services, and sharing of information such as space weather. These standards can be applied to upcoming missions to and around the Moon and can accommodate expansion as new commercial and government users and service providers join in an open and evolving network system. The standards are intended to be compatible with other space communications standards and PNT systems established to date, with a focus on lunar operations. The LNIS covers both Direct With Earth and lunar relay communications and PNT capabilities.
NASA, the European Space Agency (ESA), and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) collaboratively develop the LNIS. As the specification is refined and new versions are produced, the effort will continue to seek input from the broad community of potential commercial service providers, lunar mission users, and other space agencies.
Version 5 (current version)
The LunaNet Interoperability Specification – Version 5 was published online on February 7, 2025, and can be found at the link below.
- LunaNet Interoperability Specification – Version 5
- AD-1 Volume A – LunaNet Signal-In-Space Recommended Standard – Augmented Forward Signal
Version 4 (previous version)
The LunaNet Interoperability Specification – Version 4 was published online on September 12, 2022, and can be found at the link below.