Global interest in lunar exploration is growing fast. Understanding and using lunar resources is now a top priority for space agencies. Recently, ABB, a global leader in industrial technology, announced it will provide the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) with an advanced infrared spectrometer. The instrument will fly aboard Canada’s Lunar Utility Rover. It will analyze lunar soil and help plan future human missions.

ABB will build the Autonomous Lunar Exploration Infrared Spectrometer (ALExIS). The device uses Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, a proven technology in industrial monitoring systems. ABB has tested this technology in harsh conditions for many years. This ensures ALExIS can survive and perform well on the Moon.

Why Lunar Soil Analysis Matters

The Moon is covered in regolith, a fine powder formed by meteorite impacts and space weathering. This soil contains key elements for humans and industry, such as oxygen, silicon, iron, aluminum, calcium, and magnesium. These elements exist in compounds and are not evenly spread across the surface.

Scientists also discovered water ice in permanently shadowed regions near the Moon’s poles. This could support future human habitats. Therefore, accurate, on-site soil analysis is essential for research and exploration.

ALExIS: How It Works

ALExIS captures molecular “fingerprints” in a wide spectral range—from visible light to thermal infrared. It measures how infrared light interacts with lunar soil. This data identifies materials and maps key elements on the Moon’s surface.

These maps help scientists understand lunar geology and resource potential. They also guide future lunar bases, in-situ resource use, and crewed missions.

Industrial Technology in Space

Marc Corriveau, Head of Measurement & Analytics Canada at ABB, said,
“We are proud to support lunar exploration. Our FTIR technology already provides reliable measurements on Earth. Now it can help scientists study the Moon.”

ABB engineers will work closely with rover and lunar experts. They will improve the spectrometer’s design, durability, energy use, and data quality. ABB will also plan future development stages. This ensures the best balance between performance and cost.

ABB’s Space Experience

ABB has experience in space missions. Its FTIR spectrometer on CSA’s SciSat satellite has worked for over 22 years. It provides valuable atmospheric data to scientists worldwide. Recently, ABB tested its methane detection technologies for Mars missions to track possible biosignatures. Earlier this year, ABB also signed a contract with CSA for the TICFIRE imaging instrument, which improves global climate monitoring.

The Lunar Utility Rover project shows that ABB can adapt industrial technology for space missions. It proves that reliable and innovative technology can work beyond Earth.