NASA’s Next Lunar Rover Could Transform How We Study the Moon

NASA’s Artemis program has teamed up with Japan's Aerospace Exploration Agency to create the next generation lunar vehicle — one that is being described as an 'RV for the moon.'

In the late 2000’s, NASA proposed a concept for a futuristic space vehicle known as the Lunar Electric Rover or LER. It was set to be the first pressurized, 6 wheel omni-drive lunar vehicle enabling astronauts to go on longer research exploration missions. It was customized with a mobile workspace and [7] other really cool features like a shower and a Suitport allowing the astronauts to get in their space suits from inside the vehicle.

This was implemented because lunar surface contamination was a real issue in the Apollo program and sometimes dust could damage the instruments or even get into an astronaut’s lungs. The LER prototype made a public appearance at the Obama inauguration as well as performed several test runs in the Arizona desert. It seemed to hit everything we were looking for, distance, energy efficiency, and adaptability.

However, the LER never actually made it to the moon, the program was canceled in 2010 as a part of the larger Constellation Program because of delays and over spending. Now, let’s start talking about the new and improved vision from JEDI. Not only does this agreement bring two major players to the table, but it also describes the plans for both Lunar Gateway and lunar surface exploration. This is a huge accomplishment considering JAXA has already begun developing a self-driving, pressurized lunar rover, with the help of a major car company.

#NASA #space #moon #Japan #RV #seeker #science #elements

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NASA Artemis RV-style lunar rover could be first moon 'base'
"Having a place to camp out on the lunar surface — even for a couple of weeks — would mark NASA’s first step toward setting up a longer-term base on the moon. And, let’s face it: it also just sounds plain awesome."

Driving on the Moon: The 40-Year Legacy of NASA's First Lunar Car
"In the decades since the end of the Apollo program, engineers have looked to the LRVs for cues on how to develop current and future manned and robotic rovers."
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[thinktrovert]

There is a sci fiction book by Andy Weir(the guy who wrote The Martian) called "Artemis". It's all related a permanent moon base. In that book he mentions about a Toyota rover that they used to transfer goods on the moon. It's fascinating to know that what was once sci fiction is now edging closer to reality! Feeling excited and thrilled 🤩

[eccentricity]

I can't wait for humans to return to the moon, and this time in a big way!

[benedekfodor]

Imagine getting to work whit that thing!

[spencerpanes]

Riding a vehicle with your friends on the moon is so awesome.

[Frostwho]

I’m just gonna say it MAY THE FORCE BE WITH YOU young JEDI

[calvinredfern]

I’m working on all Toyota hybrids in Burnaston, hope we get the contract for this buggy ❤️😍

[TheTrophyStore]

Just bought a Toyota Yarris Hybrid, I wonder if I can upgrade it to this moon SRV 10, 000k on a charge. OH what a Feeling!

[aasifkamal]

Waiting for Artemis😀.
Who else is waiting for Artemis

[jeremiasrobinson]

I'm glad Seeker is getting a bigger variety of hosts.

[axyte]

Okay, this confirms it - scientists think of fitting acronyms and then make up words to fit them.



JEDI? _Really?_



kinda sus

[workman]

Imagine if the world spent 1/4 the resources on space travel instead of military dominance. We would be sipping some beers on Titan.

[mohammedshaik]

If I was NASA, I would send a modded/ pressurized Cybertruck to the moon

[ivanpadilla]

They keep re-designing them. It’s like when a major car company comes out with a concept car LOL

[dalegreathouse]

Definitely bring on the space related content!

[wackyruss]

3:22 That Thang Looks Like the Lunar Shaggin' Wagon! Groovy, Yeah, Baby, Yeah!!!

[MOTU]

Even in the moon, you need Toyota. 😂🤣

[haloklawsedwin]

'' Lunar cruiser" by toyota, damn . Proud of my prius

[CookingPhilosophy]

That looked so cool. I really just want to see the creation of a lunar research station In my lifetime. Is that asking for so much? 😭

[raunaklanjewar]

When he said fast forward to 50 years... It should've been more like we have a colony on the moon.

[randallbadgett]

With it being fairly close and the complexity of an atmosphere decent eliminated I'm surprised that no other company or organization hasn't tried sending a remote control vehicle to drive on the lunar landscape. With commercial funding I could see even a ambitious university giving it a shot.