Lunar and Cislunar Identification and Detection

ongoing

The LUCID Project (Lunar and Cislunar Identification and Detection) is a European initiative led by SMEs to explore how to detect and respond to potential threats in the emerging cislunar space—the region between Earth and the Moon. The project will combine ground-based sensors (radio and optical) with a simulated space-based patroller to track and identify spacecraft in lunar orbit. It will develop the first integrated communication system between ground and flight segments designed specifically for cislunar surveillance. By simulating detection, risk assessment, and response scenarios, LUCID will demonstrate how Europe can autonomously survey and react to suspicious space activity. The project uses advanced technologies like AI and Dara Fusion and contributes to European space sovereignty, defence readiness, and strategic autonomy. Funded by the European Defence Fund, LUCID supports cooperation with European international partners and prepares Europe to play a key role in the growing cislunar space economy and security landscape.