Lunokhod
NASA has selected three private companies: Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost and Venturi Astrolab, which will compete for the right to build a lunar rover for the Artemis mission. There are special requirements for it — this is a new type of device that should work on the Moon for a long time. Therefore, $ 4.6 billion and 10 years were allocated for its creation.
The requirements for the lunar rover are very strict. Among them: the ability to move over rough terrain and withstand prolonged contact with lunar regolith without damage. An extremely large cargo compartment, which will also be used for mounting equipment so that the lunar rover works as a field laboratory. The availability of a modern communication and navigation system, the ability to work in economy mode and the autopilot function. The last one is the most difficult.
Lunokhod
According to the Artemis mission plan, the Selenauts will stay on the Moon in shifts. They need a lunar rover for accelerated movement, as well as transportation of equipment and collected minerals. And so that the car does not stand idle between shifts, it will be rented via remote access to those who want to conduct experiments or just explore the Moon. Since control at such a distance is not easy, an autopilot is needed. So far, the companies have presented the concepts of moon rovers. They will be allocated fixed amounts and two years to develop the design and documentation. If NASA is satisfied, the project will move on to the next stage. In the final, the winner will be able to take a working prototype to the Moon to test it in real conditions. If everything is successful, then the construction of the lunar rover will begin approximately in 2039.
Moon Rover
Alexander Martynenko
