Success Story
Intuitive Machines
Intuitive Machines is a leading space technology, infrastructure, and services company headquartered in Houston, TX, USA, which is building the Space Data Network (SDN)—a scalable, intelligent architecture designed to deliver minimal-latency space data services. From communications and autonomous coordination to space-based IoT powered by precision PNT technology, Intuitive Machines is laying the groundwork for sustained lunar operations and a new era of space-based data access.
Intuitive Machines' Challenge
To deploy the first segment of the SDN—the Lunar Data Network—Intuitive Machines required a highly reliable solar power subsystem for one of its initial satellites, scheduled for launch in 2026. The mission demanded rapid proposal turnaround, accelerated delivery timelines, and a partner capable of delivering robust, space-ready hardware without compromising quality. With five satellites planned, Intuitive Machines needed technology and a supplier able to keep pace with the speed, precision, and scalability of their lunar infrastructure vision.
Dcubed Solution
Dcubed was selected to deliver the solar array power subsystem for the first Intuitive Machines satellite. The solution includes two rigid deployable solar wings providing 2 kW end-of-life total power output, engineered to meet the mission’s performance and reliability requirements. Leveraging its agile development capabilities and state-of-the-art robotic assembly line, Dcubed committed to an accelerated production and delivery schedule of less than 10 months. The proposal was submitted within 72 hours of initial discussions, reflecting Dcubed’s responsiveness and technical credibility.
Dcubed Impact
Dcubed’s rapid execution and scalable solar array technology enable Intuitive Machines to move quickly toward establishing the Lunar Data Network. With high-capacity data transmission, precision PNT services, autonomous operations, and scalable infrastructure support, the network will empower future missions with real-time coordination, resource prospecting, logistics, mobility, and long-duration lunar operations. By accelerating the buildout of Intuitive Machines’ SDN architecture, Dcubed is contributing to foundational infrastructure for the next generation of lunar exploration.
