Astrolab plans to build a lunar power and communications network capable of delivering more than 100 kilowatts (kW) of electricity using utility nodes deployed by its FLEX rovers.

The company unveiled the Lunar Utility Module for Industrial Services (LUMIS) on November 4, describing it as a system designed to provide energy, connectivity, and data services to customers operating on the Moon.

Initial LUMIS demonstration nodes are designed to generate 2 kW of power each, while future versions could reach 20 kW. Multiple units could be delivered on a cargo lander, transported by a single FLEX rover and connected to form a network exceeding 100 kW.

Astrolab says this approach could provide substantial power before anticipated nuclear energy systems become available, without the regulatory and safety requirements associated with nuclear installations.

The announcement also marks the expansion of Astrolab’s business beyond lunar rovers. Its newly introduced Lunar Operating System (LUNAR OS) combines FLEX mobility systems with LUMIS power, communications and data services to support longer-term human and robotic operations.

Unlike conventional infrastructure delivered to a fixed landing site, LUMIS nodes could be transported tens of kilometers across the lunar surface after landing.

Astrolab’s FLEX rover would carry the equipment to locations with better sunlight exposure and communications coverage. This separates the choice of a safe landing location from the positioning of operational infrastructure, potentially allowing more equipment to be delivered with fewer lunar flights.

The distinction is particularly important near the Moon’s south pole, where small changes in terrain can affect solar exposure and direct visibility of Earth.

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