Feature

Peering through lunar darkness: Australian sensors level up autonomous Moon landers

In a pivotal step towards autonomous lunar exploration, global navigation specialist Advanced Navigation has completed the critical terrestrial validation for its LUNA (Laser measurement Unit for Navigation Aid) sensor.

07/01/2026 15:56:48

During a series of punishing, Moon-like trials on Earth, the LUNA sensor not only proved its core functionality, but also exceeded the demanding performance requirements of its commercial lunar surface delivery provider, Intuitive Machines.

This achievement clears the path for LUNA to enter the final stage of space qualification for its upcoming IM-4 mission, which includes NASA payloads.

“For decades, landing on the Moon has meant flying with only partial vision in the final kilometres," said Chris Shaw, CEO and Co-founder of Advanced Navigation.

"With no GPS to guide them, landers depend on a combination of sensors that can introduce drift or deliver incomplete data, turning every descent into a high-stakes calculation, where a single error could mean mission failure.”

Read the full article in DPA's January 2026 issue

Written By Sophia Bell

Sophia Bell is the Group Editor of DPA, Connectivity, and PBSI. She joined the team in 2020 as Assistant Editor after achieving a First-Class Honours BA in English Literature and Film Studies from the University of East Anglia. In her current role, she leads the editorial strategy, driving digital growth and ensuring each title continues to deliver trusted, relevant insight for engineering and manufacturing professionals.