Wed Feb 26 05:06:25 UTC 2025: ## Intuitive Machines Poised for Second Moon Landing Attempt
**Cape Canaveral, FL –** Intuitive Machines is preparing for its second lunar landing mission, scheduled for launch today, February 26th, 2025. The company’s Nova-C lander, named Athena, will launch aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. This mission, part of NASA’s $2.6 billion Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative, aims to land near the lunar south pole, specifically in the vicinity of the Shackleton crater. Athena will search for water ice and other gases by drilling into the lunar surface.
This launch follows Intuitive Machines’ historic first private moon landing in February 2024, a mission that, while partially successful (the lander tipped after touchdown), established the company as a key player in lunar exploration. The company recently secured a $116.9 million CLPS contract to deliver six science and technology payloads to the lunar south pole.
Despite recent turmoil within NASA’s lunar program, with the departure of four senior officials amidst growing influence from SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, Intuitive Machines remains confident. Senior Vice President Trent Martin stated that the Nova-C is “buttoned up and ready to go,” following a successful wet dress rehearsal. The mission promises significant advancements in our understanding of the moon’s resources and further solidifies the role of private companies in space exploration.
First Piper 