The field of space exploration is taking a big leap forward with the development of a three-legged robot called “SpaceHopper” by students at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH Zurich). The robot is specifically designed to overcome the challenges of low gravity on asteroids and moons.
Smart Jumps: Innovative Design for More Agile Movement
The secret to SpaceHopper’s engineering prowess lies in its innovative design. Which optimizes dynamic movement patterns in low-gravity environments. This compact robot, with each leg weighing just one kilogram, is equipped with components designed to withstand harsh space conditions. Unlike traditional methods that rely on gyroscopes or flywheels, SpaceHopper’s three legs are not only used for propulsion but also for mid-air redirection. Which is crucial for precise landing.
This new method is facilitated by its built-in artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms that control leg movement. Allowing the robot to quickly adapt to changing environments. SpaceHopper focuses on extended flight phases. Coupled with its intelligent leg control. Making it the ideal choice for agile exploration of asteroids and moons.
SpaceHopper has demonstrated exceptional capabilities in a simulation of Ceres gravity (0.029 g). Where it successfully performed directed jumps to specific locations up to 6 meters away. These real-world experiments further reinforce its impressive abilities. As SpaceHopper has proven its ability to reorient itself into a safe landing position with high accuracy. With a margin of error of no more than 9.7 degrees, using a rotating frame. And it can even perform jumps under Earth gravity in a setup using a counterweight. Demonstrating its ability to adapt to different gravity conditions.
Beyond the Jumps: The Importance of SpaceHopper for Space Exploration
SpaceHopper’s significance goes beyond being a robot with high-tech capabilities. It plays a crucial role in scientific exploration and resource exploitation of low-gravity celestial bodies. The need for innovative solutions for low-gravity space exploration has become apparent as wheeled vehicles. Such as Mars rovers, have faced significant limitations in low-gravity environments due to traction problems and rough terrain. While alternative methods, such as legged climbing robots and dynamic walking systems, offer promising alternatives, they often lack the efficiency and versatility required for large-scale exploration.
SpaceHopper bridges this gap by combining the agility of dynamic walking systems with the ability to adapt to diverse environments in these conditions. Its three-legged design ensures exceptional stability while enabling efficient movement across diverse terrains. From smooth plains to rough terrain. The robot mimics cats in its agility, landing on its legs after each jump.
One of the main advantages of SpaceHopper is its reliance on leg-based directional control. Eliminating the need for additional subsystems such as reaction wheels. This contributes to simplifying its design and reducing its weight. Making it more efficient and maneuverable in harsh space environments. While previous exploration robots have paved the way for understanding low-gravity environments. SpaceHopper represents a step change specifically designed to meet the challenges of asteroid and moon exploration. By integrating extended flight capabilities into its movement repertoire. SpaceHopper has an exceptional ability to quickly overcome obstacles and navigate efficiently across difficult terrain.
SpaceHopper represents a revolutionary tool in the field of low-gravity space exploration. Combining multiple advantages that make it the ideal choice for efficient navigation and exploration of asteroids and moons. As our interest in scientific exploration and resource exploitation of celestial bodies continues to grow. Brilliant engineering innovations like SpaceHopper will play a significant role in expanding our knowledge of the universe and understanding its immense potential.
By: Djamil Kerrouche
