Within an experiment named LuGRE, NASA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI) successfully managed to detect and utilize GPS signals from Earth on the Moon.

Accurate navigation is crucial for space missions. NASA and ASI achieved a milestone in this field. During the Lunar GNSS Receiver Experiment (LuGRE) conducted on March 3rd, it was proven that Global Positioning System (GPS) signals used on Earth could be utilized on the Moon.

Throughout the experiment, the LuGRE equipment successfully captured GPS signals from Earth after landing on the lunar surface. The detection of GPS signals on the Moon provides a significant advancement in navigation systems and enables the development of more precise and independent positioning methods for future Moon and Mars missions.

Previously, engineers tracked space vehicles using measurements made with onboard sensors and signals from Earth-based tracking stations. Thanks to LuGRE, it is stated that space vehicles can autonomously use GPS signals, moving with much less dependency on human operators.

Experts believe that space missions on the Moon and Mars will become much more efficient thanks to these developments. NASA officials believe that spacecraft capable of moving more accurately and independently without Earth-based tracking are possible.

While on the lunar surface, the LuGRE equipment successfully received signals from GPS and Galileo satellites. The experiment demonstrated that signals from 362 thousand kilometers away could be corrected and effectively utilized. Additionally, during this mission, a new altitude record for Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) was set. When LuGRE reached lunar orbit, it set a new record for the highest altitude GNSS signal acquisition at 391 thousand kilometers, surpassing the previous record of 338 thousand kilometers.