Astrolab to deploy supercomputer and AI on Moon via Griffin-1 mission

California-based startup Astrolab is preparing to launch its FLIP lunar rover to the Moon’s south pole later this year as part of NASA’s Griffin Mission 1. This mission marks the first time high-performance computing and artificial intelligence will be tested directly on the lunar surface.

The FLIP rover will carry the Spaceborne Computer-4, developed by HPE, which features a low-power 64-bit CPU with a GPU. Designed to withstand extreme lunar environments, including long periods of darkness, the system will be powered by the rover’s batteries and solar panels. The mission aims to validate the reliability of scalable AI services and high-performance computing in space.

In addition to testing hardware durability, the onboard AI will perform autonomous tasks such as analyzing visual data, navigation, mapping, and terrain analysis. The mission will also utilize machine learning algorithms previously used on Mars to assist with positioning in areas without GPS. Other payloads for the mission include the CubeRover, the LandCam-X optical navigation system, and the Nanofiche GLPH micro-archive.