OpenAI GPT-5.6 Sol, Terra, and Luna Models Now Available in GitHub Copilot
GitHub has integrated OpenAI's GPT-5.6 model family—consisting of Sol, Terra, and Luna—into GitHub Copilot, allowing developers to choose the optimal model for their specific development tasks.
The rollout of the OpenAI GPT-5.6 family in GitHub Copilot introduces three distinct model variants designed to optimize different aspects of the software development lifecycle. Sol represents the high-capability tier for complex reasoning and architecture design, Terra provides a balanced option for general coding tasks, and Luna offers high-speed, low-latency assistance for rapid completions. This tiering allows software engineers to match the appropriate computational power and cost profile to the task at hand.
Primary source
Open GitHub Changelog ↗This article summarizes the source. Check the original for full details and conditions.
Comparison
| Aspect | Before / Alternative | After / This |
|---|---|---|
| Model selection | Limited to a single default model tier for all coding tasks | Three task-specific GPT-5.6 variants (Sol, Terra, Luna) are available |
| Latency and speed | Uniform response times regardless of task complexity | Sub-second completions via the lightweight Luna model |
| Complex reasoning | Prone to limitations on large-scale architectural design | Deep reasoning capabilities powered by the premium Sol model |
Action Checklist
- Open GitHub Copilot settings in your IDE or enterprise console Ensure your IDE extension is updated to the latest version to see the new model options
- Select the appropriate GPT-5.6 model variant based on your current task Use Luna for quick edits, Terra for general development, and Sol for complex debugging or architecture
- Review enterprise policies if managing a team license Administrators can configure default models or restrict certain high-cost tiers if necessary