Designing a robotic hopping cube for lunar exploration

Tim Hojnik, Robert Lee, Donald G. Dansereau, Jürgen Leitner

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference PaperResearchpeer-review

Abstract

This paper proposes a mechanically hopping 1U CubeSat-scale payload for lunar exploration. The high energy density of a mechanical compression spring-based locomotion system makes it very attractive for extra-terrestrial operations, especially in lower gravity and thinner atmospheres. The main aim is to record images and perform surface mapping from novel vantage points using on-board algorithms. We demonstrate prototypes of the locomotion and vision systems in terrestrial surrogate environments. We envision similar systems playing a crucial role in supporting the operation of ground-based lunar explorers, such as, mapping, (beyond-horizon) path planning and navigation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAustralasian Conference on Robotics and Automation 2016, ACRA 2016
EditorsSurya Singh, Hanna Kurniawati, Paul Pounds
Place of PublicationBrisbane QLD
PublisherAustralian Robotics and Automation Association (ARAA)
Pages161-168
Number of pages8
ISBN (Electronic)9781634396080
Publication statusPublished - 2016
Externally publishedYes
EventAustralasian Conference on Robotics and Automation 2016 - Brisbane, Australia
Duration: 2 Dec 20164 Dec 2016
https://www.araa.asn.au/conference/acra/ (Website/Proceedings)

Publication series

NameAustralasian Conference on Robotics and Automation, ACRA
PublisherAustralian Robotics and Automation Association (ARAA)
Volume2016-December
ISSN (Print)1448-2053

Conference

ConferenceAustralasian Conference on Robotics and Automation 2016
Abbreviated titleACRA 2016
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityBrisbane
Period2/12/164/12/16
Internet address

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