Lunar Assay via Small Satellite Orbiter (LASSO)

The LASSO program aims to develop technologies to support significantly increasing the United States’ (US) ability to conduct operations in support of space situational awareness by developing both autonomous satellite navigation in stressing orbital conditions and increasing satellite maneuverability through continuous dynamic repositioning based on changing conditions, with the added benefit of creating a proven reserve model for resources relevant to ISRU on Earth’s Moon.

LASSO supposes that high resolution measurements of resources across the entire lunar surface is the most compelling commercial application to drive optimized performance in propulsion system and GNC design. The program seeks performers to design, test, build, and deliver a spacecraft capable of determining all areas on the Moon that contain greater than 5% water concentration with a resolution of no larger than four-square kilometers. LASSO is focused on developing technologies for use in lunar orbit and does not intend to use any equipment on the lunar surface.