Autonomous Lunar Investigation and Communications Explorer (A.L.I.C.E.): Conceptual Design of Lunar Rover with Autonomous Capabilities
Disciplines
Astrodynamics | Space Vehicles
Abstract (300 words maximum)
The present paper describes the development of the Autonomous Lunar Investigation and Communications Explorer (A.L.I.C.E.). The A.L.I.C.E. is a lunar rover design concept tailored for enhanced lunar exploration while minimizing human interference. The rover must follow a set of requirements, ensuring its survivability on the Moon. The design of A.L.I.C.E. was specialized to account for Clavius Crater being the landing point and mission area. Details of this paper include its mission profile, thorough explanations of the process of selecting optimal instruments, CAD models of A.L.I.C.E. with descriptions of each view, and calculations regarding weight and power consumption of the rover. The rover will be used to collect lunar soil samples. These samples will be stored in an on-board compartment and brought back to the base station. Results and analysis of the model tested in simulation are also discussed. By reducing human intervention and increasing scientific data collection capabilities, this concept offers a significant leap forward in lunar surface exploration, potentially paving the way for future space missions and scientific discoveries.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
SPCEET - Mechanical Engineering
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Adeel Khalid
Autonomous Lunar Investigation and Communications Explorer (A.L.I.C.E.): Conceptual Design of Lunar Rover with Autonomous Capabilities
The present paper describes the development of the Autonomous Lunar Investigation and Communications Explorer (A.L.I.C.E.). The A.L.I.C.E. is a lunar rover design concept tailored for enhanced lunar exploration while minimizing human interference. The rover must follow a set of requirements, ensuring its survivability on the Moon. The design of A.L.I.C.E. was specialized to account for Clavius Crater being the landing point and mission area. Details of this paper include its mission profile, thorough explanations of the process of selecting optimal instruments, CAD models of A.L.I.C.E. with descriptions of each view, and calculations regarding weight and power consumption of the rover. The rover will be used to collect lunar soil samples. These samples will be stored in an on-board compartment and brought back to the base station. Results and analysis of the model tested in simulation are also discussed. By reducing human intervention and increasing scientific data collection capabilities, this concept offers a significant leap forward in lunar surface exploration, potentially paving the way for future space missions and scientific discoveries.