NASA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI) have successfully detected and utilized GPS signals from Earth on the Moon as part of an experiment named LuGRE.

Accurate Navigation is crucial for space missions. NASA and ASI have achieved a milestone in this field. During the Moon GNSS Receiver Experiment (LuGRE) conducted on March 3, it was proven that the Global Positioning System (GPS) signals used on Earth can also be utilized on the Moon.

Throughout this experiment, the LuGRE equipment managed to capture GPS signals from Earth after landing on the lunar surface for a certain period of time. The detection of GPS signals on the Moon not only signifies a significant advancement in navigation systems but also enables the development of more precise and independent position determination methods for future Moon and Mars missions.

Until now, engineers have been tracking spacecraft by making specific measurements using onboard sensors and signals from Earth-based tracking stations. With LuGRE, it is suggested that spacecraft can autonomously use GPS signals and operate with much less reliance on human operators.

Experts believe that with these developments, space missions on the Moon and Mars will become much more efficient. NASA officials believe it is possible for spacecraft to move more independently and accurately without Earth-based tracking.

The LuGRE equipment successfully received signals from GPS and Galileo satellites while on the lunar surface. The experiment proved that signals coming from 362 thousand kilometers away could be corrected and effectively utilized. Additionally, during this mission, a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) altitude record was broken. When LuGRE reached the Moon’s orbit, it set a new altitude record for GNSS signal acquisition at 391 thousand kilometers. The previous record was 338 thousand kilometers.