JAOPS Will Operate the First Japanese Privately Funded Rover to the Moon, Intuitive Machines Prepares for Historic Launch

TOKYO, JP / February 25, 2025 / Dymon announced that the YAOKI rover is loaded aboard the Intuitive Machines Nova-C class lunar lander, Athena and is ready to be operated by JAOPS once landed on the Moon. The mission, scheduled to deploy no earlier than February 26, 2025, is the second trip to the Moon’s surface for Intuitive Machines.

The YAOKI rover, developed by Dymon, represents a significant milestone in Japan’s space exploration endeavors. “YAOKI” is a cutting-edge lunar rover equipped with essential robotic technologies such as sensors, motors, batteries, and communication systems. It serves as a cost-effective and frequent-use lunar experimentation platform, allowing companies to conduct proof-of-concept missions and collect valuable lunar data.

JAOPS will manage the mission’s ground operations, leveraging their extensive experience in space operations to ensure the rover’s successful deployment and data transmission. The Nova-C lander, developed by Intuitive Machines, will deliver the Yaoki rover to the Moon, targeting the Moon’s South Pole.

“We are incredibly proud to see our Yaoki rover ready for its journey to the Moon,” said Shinichiro Nakajima, CEO of Dymon. “This mission is a testament to the innovative spirit and determination of our team and our partners at JAOPS and Intuitive Machines.”

“This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in private space exploration and highlights the growing capabilities of Japanese companies in this field,” added Alejandro Sela, CEO of JAOPS. “We are excited to contribute to this historic mission and pave the way for future lunar exploration.”