Honda and Astrobotic partner on fuel cell technology to power Lunar missions

September 30, 2025 (MLN): Lunar exploration took a significant step forward on Monday as American Honda Motor Co. reached an agreement with U.S. space firm Astrobotic Technology Inc. to provide a regenerative fuel cell system for testing on the Moon.

The collaboration is intended to support extended human presence on the lunar surface by delivering sustainable power during prolonged lunar nights.

The regenerative fuel cell system, developed by Honda, is engineered to produce oxygen, hydrogen and electricity using solar energy and water.

Once integrated into Astrobotic’s solar-powered platform, the system is expected to ensure continuous power supply during the Moon’s 14-Earth-day-long nights.

Honda’s technology stores solar power as hydrogen during the lunar day and later converts it into electricity at night. The system’s only byproduct is water, which can be reused, adding to its sustainability for long-duration missions.

Astrobotic’s lunar power systems architect, Bobby Rolley, said the agreement represents a “major move” toward enabling survival in the harsh lunar environment and extending mission timelines from days to years.

Derek Adelman, chief engineer at American Honda Motor’s Space Development Division, noted that the collaboration marks a pivotal step toward scalable energy solutions for long-term lunar surface operations.

Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Pittsburgh, Astrobotic has been contracted for two lunar missions and specializes in technologies for space exploration, including rockets and engines.

Honda, known for its hydrogen-powered vehicles, established the Space Development Division at its American subsidiary in late 2024 to advance technological development and enhance cooperation with the U.S. space industry.

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