Contact UsOverview
Intuitive Machines (IM) is a diversified space exploration company dedicated to commercializing the solar system. With the Moon as their North Star, IM is at the forefront of pioneering space services.
Challenge
IM faced the daunting task of building a “self-contained mini space program” from scratch. This included:
- Development: Designing and manufacturing the spacecraft, communication systems, and ground networks.
- Infrastructure: Setting up control centers, manufacturing facilities, and testing environments.
- Team Management: Accomplishing all this with a small, dedicated team within tight deadlines.
- Complexity: Managing a project that spanned every discipline of aerospace, mechanical, electrical, computer, and software engineering, as well as operations, testing, and verification.
At-A-Glance
Technology Used
- Ansys HFSS™
- Ansys Thermal Desktop™
- Ansys Mechanical™
- Ansys Systems Tool Kit (STK®)
- SimuTech Group Technical Support
Challenge
- Build a “self-contained mini space program” from scratch
Benefits
- Efficient Design Process
- Optimized Mission Planning
- Cost and Time Savings
- Expert Support
Solution
IM leveraged Ansys simulation software, supported by SimuTech Group, to overcome their challenges.
Together, Ansys HFSS™, Ansys Thermal Desktop™, and Ansys Mechanical™ provided IM with easy-to-use, accurate analysis capabilities for each iteration of their spacecraft designs.
IM also used Ansys Systems Tool Kit (STK®) to allow their Communications and Operations Teams to simulate the flight to the Moon, model communications links between ground stations and the vehicle, and assess expected performance throughout the mission.
Lastly, SimuTech Group was pivotal in providing support, answering engineering queries, suggesting improvements, and ensuring the team remained operational throughout their project.
The Benefits
- Efficient Design Process: Accurate simulation before committing to hardware saved numerous re-spins of antennas and structural elements, streamlining the design process.
- Optimized Mission Planning: STK’s mission simulation capabilities enabled IM to “fly before they fly,” optimizing ground network coverage and ensuring nearly continuous communication between Earth and the Moon.
- Cost and Time Savings: The simulations improved reliability and reduced the costs of ground station support.
- Expert Support: SimuTech’s dedicated support was instrumental in addressing IM’s unique needs and providing solutions throughout the project.
Success
IM successfully landed IM-1 “Odysseus” on the Moon, marking the first commercial mission to do so and the first US lander on the Moon in over 50 years. This landmark achievement was made possible through the robust partnership with SimuTech Group, whose sales, technical support, and consulting services were integral to IM’s success.
Intuitive Machines’ collaboration with Ansys and SimuTech Group showcases the power of innovative simulation tools and dedicated support in achieving groundbreaking milestones in space exploration. Together, an ambitious vision turned into reality, paving the way for future commercial missions to the Moon and beyond.
Jump Start Your Project with Industry Leading Solutions
At SimuTech Group, we specialize in bridging the gap between design and reality. Using the most advanced simulation software available, we can predict and optimize critical factors before physical implementation, reducing time-to-market and minimizing costs associated with iterative testing.
