Intuitive Machines Inc. (LUNR) has successfully integrated Nokia's Lunar Surface Communication System into its IM-2 mission lander, named Athena. This integration aims to establish the first cellular network on the Moon during the IM-2 mission.
This initiative reinforces Intuitive Machines' position in cislunar space, potentially attracting investors to the company. Over the past year, LUNR shares have surged 636.3%, significantly outperforming the Zacks Aerospace-Defense industry, which declined by 2.4%. The stock also surpassed the broader Zacks Aerospace sector's growth of 7.7% and the S&P 500's 26.8% increase.
In 2024, Intuitive Machines achieved multiple milestones, including notable contract wins and advancements in lunar missions. In February, the IM-1 mission successfully launched its Nova-C lunar lander aboard SpaceX's Falcon 9, establishing stable communication with its Houston operations center. In August, the company secured a $116.9 million contract to deliver six payloads to the Moon's South Pole and signed a rideshare agreement with SEOPS.
In September, NASA awarded Intuitive Machines a $4.82 billion contract for communication and navigation services under the Near Space Network (NSN). The company also introduced LUNR's Moon RACER lunar terrain vehicle for NASA's Artemis program in November, concluding the year with additional NSN contracts for Direct-to-Earth services. These accomplishments reflect LUNR's strategic positioning within the burgeoning commercial lunar economy.