SpaceX will launch Intuitive Machines’ fourth moon lander, IM-4, in 2027, as part of the company’s continued push to commercialize lunar exploration. The launch will also include two relay satellites designed to support NASA’s lunar communications network. This announcement follows recent challenges faced by the Houston-based company, including the crash of its IM-2 lander near the moon’s south pole.
New Moon Lander and Satellite Mission Set for 2027
Intuitive Machines has selected SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket to carry its IM-4 moon lander into space in 2027. The mission will include two relay satellites, aimed at supporting NASA’s Near Space Network Services contract. These satellites will play a key role in enhancing communications for both NASA and commercial lunar operations.
The company’s CEO, Steve Altemus, expressed optimism about the mission’s impact on lunar exploration. “Lunar surface delivery and data relay satellites are central to our strategy to commercialize the Moon,” said Altemus. The IM-4 mission is expected to pave the way for future lunar communications, with the first of five planned lunar data relay satellites set to deploy during Intuitive Machines’ IM-3 mission in 2026.
The goal is to expand the service, introducing a pay-per-minute service to commercialize lunar operations. Altemus further explained that IM-4’s satellites would scale up this service, followed by additional satellite deployments to complete the constellation and enhance NASA’s lunar communications capabilities.
Lessons from Previous Landers
Intuitive Machines has faced setbacks, including the crash of its IM-2 lander in March 2025, which occurred near the lunar south pole. Despite this, the company remains focused on its future missions. “We are moving forward with confidence,” Altemus stated, acknowledging the challenges but emphasizing the progress made toward future missions.
The IM-4 mission will carry six NASA payloads, including a new drill experiment developed by the European Space Agency. This experiment will search for water at the lunar south pole, an area of significant scientific interest due to its potential resources.
Past Challenges and Future Goals
This is not the first time Intuitive Machines has encountered difficulties with its moon landers. In 2024, the company’s IM-1 lander, called Odysseus, tipped over after breaking a landing leg during its mission. Similarly, the IM-2 Athena lander also encountered issues during its March 2025 landing attempt, tipping over on the lunar surface.
Despite these setbacks, Intuitive Machines is determined to continue its lunar exploration goals. The IM-3 mission, set for 2026, will serve as a precursor to the IM-4 mission, launching the first of the company’s relay satellites and advancing its lunar communications infrastructure. As part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services program, the IM-4 mission will carry important payloads, including the European Space Agency’s water-hunting drill, which aims to search for water resources that could benefit future lunar missions.
What’s Next for Intuitive Machines and SpaceX?
With SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket poised to carry the IM-4 lander into space, Intuitive Machines is taking bold steps toward securing a sustainable commercial presence on the Moon. The IM-4 mission is set to be a crucial milestone for both the company and NASA’s lunar exploration efforts. As the company looks ahead, it plans to complete its constellation of lunar satellites and support NASA’s expanding operations on the Moon.
The success of the IM-4 mission would mark a significant achievement for Intuitive Machines, solidifying its role as a key player in the growing commercial space industry. By continuing to deploy innovative technologies and fostering partnerships with major organizations like NASA, the company is positioning itself to lead the way in lunar exploration and commercialization.
