Moonraker Lunar LiDAR Mission Selected as Candidate for ESA Next-Generation Space Mission Study
The European Space Agency has shortlisted the Moonraker lunar LiDAR proposal as a candidate for its next-generation space mission research program. The initiative aims to use LiDAR sensor technology to conduct high-precision 3D terrain mapping of the lunar surface, marking a significant step in Europe's push to advance moon exploration capabilities.
Highlights
- ESA has selected the Moonraker lunar LiDAR proposal as a candidate for its next-generation space mission research program.
- Moonraker plans to use high-precision LiDAR sensors to generate 3D terrain maps of the Moon, supporting landing site selection and resource identification.
- LiDAR technology used in Moonraker is the same core technology already deployed in drone remote sensing and topographic surveying on Earth.
- The mission remains in the proposal research stage and must complete a feasibility assessment before formal inclusion in ESA's mission pipeline.
- Moonraker's selection reflects Europe's strategy to play an active role in the global lunar exploration race alongside NASA's Artemis program and missions from China and Japan.
The Moonraker lunar LiDAR proposal has been selected as one of the research candidates for Europe's next-generation space mission program, marking an important milestone in the development of European lunar mapping technology.
What Is Moonraker?
Moonraker is a lunar mapping mission proposal centered on LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. The mission plans to use high-precision LiDAR sensors to conduct detailed three-dimensional terrain scanning and spatial data collection across the lunar surface. LiDAR technology is already widely used on Earth in applications such as drone remote sensing, topographic surveying, and infrastructure inspection — and is now poised to be extended to lunar exploration missions.
The Potential of LiDAR Technology in Space Exploration
LiDAR technology can measure distances and terrain profiles with exceptional accuracy, operating effectively even in complex lighting conditions. When applied to the lunar environment, LiDAR could help scientists and engineers to:
- Generate high-resolution lunar topographic maps
- Identify potential landing sites and resource distribution zones
- Support future crewed lunar landings and lunar base site selection
Strategic Significance for European Space Missions
Moonraker's selection into the research phase reflects Europe's proactive strategic positioning in the international lunar exploration race. As NASA's Artemis program advances alongside lunar initiatives from China, Japan, and other nations, Europe aims to secure a meaningful role in global lunar exploration cooperation through independently developed advanced mapping technology.
Moonraker currently remains in the proposal research stage. The mission concept will undergo a more detailed feasibility assessment before a final determination is made on whether it will be formally incorporated into the European Space Agency's (ESA) mission planning pipeline.
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Reviewed and published by the LAETimes editorial desk ·
