NASA's CLPS Program Showcases Unique Technical Approaches By Providers

In this rendering private lunar lander Blue Ghost touches down on the moon with a special delivery for NASA Sunday, March 2, 2025. (NASA/Firefly Aerospace via AP)

Firefly Aerospace's Blue Ghost program, operating under NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, is one of the unique providers in the space agency's initiative. According to Joel Kearns, the deputy associate administrator for exploration in NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, the companies involved in the CLPS program each bring a distinct technical approach to the table.

Kearns highlighted Firefly's rigorous and technical approach, emphasizing the company's commitment to excellence from the outset. Ray Allensworth, the head of Firefly's Blue Ghost program, mentioned that the team conducted numerous simulations to prepare for various scenarios.

Joel Kearns praises Firefly's technical approach and commitment to excellence.

Firefly Aerospace is part of NASA's CLPS program for lunar missions.

Ray Allensworth leads Firefly's Blue Ghost program, focusing on simulations for mission readiness.

These simulations included both nominal (normal) and off-nominal (unexpected) scenarios. Allensworth explained that the team even considered scenarios such as how they would respond if a meteor were to impact one of Blue Ghost's solar panels.

By running through these diverse scenarios, the team aimed to ensure that they were well-prepared for any situation that might arise during the mission. Allensworth emphasized the importance of thorough preparation to ensure that all teams involved in the project were operating effectively and efficiently.