Leonardo, Telespazio, and ispace Formalize Lunar Exploration Collaboration

The collaboration builds upon existing ties between ispace and Telespazio, drawing on Leonardo's expertise in robotics and artificial intelligence for space exploration. A focus of the MoU is to enhance the interoperability of lunar services, aligning with the European Space Agency’s Moonlight programme, which is led by Telespazio.

The agreement also expands previous cooperation initiated in 2025, incorporating Leonardo’s capabilities across various strategic areas such as user access and service provision. The partnership aims to address the growing demand for lunar communications, positioning, navigation, and timing services, while exploring the transportation of Moonlight satellites to lunar orbit using ispace's orbital transfer vehicle.

Takeshi Hakamada, Founder and CEO of ispace, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the goal of creating a sustainable cislunar economy with capabilities in transportation, communications, and navigation. Julien-Alexandre Lamamy, CEO of ispace-EUROPE, highlighted the integration of European and Japanese expertise as vital for supporting advanced lunar missions and a long-term lunar presence.

Massimo Claudio Comparini, Managing Director of Leonardo Space Division, noted that this agreement represents a significant step towards developing a comprehensive infrastructure capable of supporting an increasing number of lunar missions. Gabriele Pieralli, Chief Executive Officer of Telespazio, stated that the collaboration strengthens Italy and Europe’s position in lunar communication and navigation, furthering the goal of establishing a functional lunar economy.

As lunar exploration evolves into a sustained operational ecosystem, the importance of comprehensive communications, navigation, and transportation infrastructure is increasingly acknowledged as essential for scientific, commercial, and governmental endeavors on the Moon and in lunar orbit.