Fugro supports debut of Lunar Terrain Vehicle prototype

Fugro supports debut of Lunar Terrain Vehicle prototype
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Nov 09, 2024

Earlier this year, Fugro Australia's Space Automation, AI, and Robotics Control Complex (SpAARC) entered into a partnership with U.S. space exploration company Intuitive Machines to aid their phase 1 feasibility contract with NASA for a Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV). On Friday, JSC's Space Centre Houston, hosted the unveiling of the first prototype, named Moon RACER.

Fugro, known for its expertise in advanced robotics in challenging environments, is contributing to the LTV's development as part of NASA's Artemis program. This initiative focuses on lunar exploration for scientific advancement, technological progress, and the preparation for future human missions to Mars. Fugro's involvement includes designing software architecture, developing mission planning tools, and handling mission operations. The SpAARC facility is set to act as a Mission Control hub in the Southern Hemisphere.

NASA's Artemis campaign, which aims to establish a sustained lunar presence through international and commercial collaborations, emphasizes building commercial rover capabilities for both scientific research and future human exploration. The LTV project utilizes NASA's rover experience to develop a commercial vehicle that supports long-term lunar operations.

The Moon RACER LTV is an innovative rover designed for both autonomous and human-led missions. It features advanced navigation, power management, and communication systems. Capable of transporting cargo, conducting scientific experiments, and ensuring safety, the rover can be remotely controlled during uncrewed phases to optimize scientific activities between astronaut-led missions.

Sam Forbes, Director of Fugro SpAARC, stated: "We are proud to partner with Intuitive Machines on the Lunar Terrain Vehicle as part of NASA's Artemis campaign. This partnership builds on our expertise in remote and autonomous operations and is an exciting opportunity to demonstrate Fugro's capabilities in supporting lunar surface operations. It's a privilege to contribute, alongside Intuitive Machines, to a mission that will significantly expand human reach and scientific research on the Moon."

Tim Crain, Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Intuitive Machines, remarked: "It's a privilege to work alongside Fugro in creating the Lunar Terrain Vehicle. Our ongoing partnership, including SpAARC's support for our upcoming IM-2 mission to the Lunar South Pole region, is key to achieving our goal of advancing lunar exploration. Fugro's expertise in remote and autonomous operations is essential to the success of Moon RACER and will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of lunar exploration."