Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ:LUNR) operates as a provider of end-to-end space solutions focused predominantly on lunar exploration. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company was founded in 2013 with the mission of advancing access to the moon through robotic and autonomous systems. Intuitive Machines develops spacecraft hardware, specialized software and mission management services tailored to both governmental and commercial clients pursuing lunar and deep-space objectives.
The company’s flagship offering is the Nova-C lunar lander, designed to deliver scientific payloads, technology demonstrations and communication relay packages to the moon’s surface. In addition to lander development, Intuitive Machines engineers proprietary propulsion systems, guidance and navigation software, and ground operations infrastructure. These integrated capabilities support a range of mission profiles, from precision landings near lunar poles to complex orbital trajectories around Earth’s natural satellite.
Intuitive Machines has secured multiple awards under NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, partnering with the U.S. space agency to deliver instruments and experiments that advance lunar science. The firm also collaborates with defense organizations, academic institutions and international space agencies, extending its services across North America, Europe and Asia. By combining private capital and government contracts, Intuitive Machines aims to lower the cost barrier for small payload missions to the moon.
Led by President and CEO Stephen Altemus, a veteran of NASA’s Johnson Space Center, Intuitive Machines is guided by a leadership team with deep expertise in aerospace engineering, systems integration and mission operations. The company continues to invest in research and development to refine its lander technologies and expand into adjacent markets such as in-space logistics and lunar surface infrastructure, positioning itself as a pioneer in the next era of commercial space exploration.
