GM Defense, MDA Space to Provide Battery Propulsion for Artemis 2029 Lunar Rover
MDA•NASA awarded GM Defense a subcontract for battery-electric propulsion on the Pegasus LTV alongside MDA Space for the Artemis 2029 mission. Pegasus, a lighter evolution of the Eagle rover, enables manual, teleoperated and Level-5 autonomous driving above 9 mph with one-year operation and -334°F survival during 14-day lunar nights.
1. Contract Award Overview
NASA awarded GM Defense a subcontract for battery-electric propulsion on the Pegasus Lunar Terrain Vehicle, selecting MDA Space among subcontractors alongside prime contractor Lunar Outpost, Goodyear and Leidos in support of the Artemis 2029 mission.
2. MDA Space’s Role
MDA Space will collaborate on development of the LTV’s power systems and space-grade integration, leveraging its expertise in robotics and lunar mobility to ensure compatibility with NASA’s long-duration surface operations requirements.
3. Pegasus LTV Technical Specifications
Pegasus features manual, teleoperated and Level-5 autonomous driving capabilities at speeds over 9 mph, supports up to one year of operation, and incorporates ‘survive the night’ technology to withstand 14-day lunar nights at temperatures down to -334°F.
4. Implications for MDA Space
Participation in this contract secures MDA Space’s entry into NASA’s Artemis program, enhancing its backlog in lunar mobility projects and positioning the company for future government space exploration contracts.
