R.E.S.L.

Robotic Exploration and Science Lab

ASTE 527

Nicholas Espalin-Pardo

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Concept Overview

Utilize robotic exploration to gather more information on lunar vents and test technologies and systems for later manned lunar vent exploration missions.

Lunar Lava Tubes

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lunar lava tubes are naturally voluminous structures that offer constant habitable temperatures, provide radiation protection, and natural shielding from micrometeoritic showers that are a constant threat posed by lunar surface assets

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Mission Value

Before human exploration and use of lunar vents, preliminary reconnaissance must be conducted. Technology that could potentially be useful for human habitation in lunar vents must be tested in the environment before use.

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Mission Goals

Use rovers to conduct robotic exploration of lunar vent environments and preliminary staging of location

GOAL 1

Use robotic exploration information and technology to create lunar vent infrastructure for future human use

GOAL 2

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Mission Context

LPS2: “Advance understanding of the geologic processes that affect planetary bodies…” – Advanced robotics to further explore Lunar geology

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SE2: “Enable Earth-based scientists to remotely support astronaut surface and deep space activities…” – Flesh out systems and methods for remote controlled/supported activities

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LI2 & LI3: “Develop a lunar surface, orbital, and Moon-to-Earth communications architecture…” – Create communication architecture that is scalable for future and larger scale missions

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Mission Rational

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Key mission concept concerns are power and communication during exploration

Robotic Rovers

Robotic exploration using rovers has been historically useful

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Power

Short duration remote tethered rover reconnaissance for initial area vetting followed by cabled rover advancement would allow for slow but safe exploration

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Technology Testing

In-situ testing is necessary before later missions can be made safe for humans

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Insertion Method

Utilize a submerged wide base cantilever crane to lower the rover into the pit. along with power and telecommunication lines

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Technology Validation

Establish lunar science laboratory to test thermal and structural capacities of lunar regolith. Gather data on Telecomunication limitations, thermal changes, and other environmental factors

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System Validation

Validate proposed methods for power and telecommunication system which play a crucial role in lunar lava tubes

THANK YOU

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