A team of researchers led by Professor Dae-Young Lee from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) has developed a groundbreaking origami-inspired wheel designed to enhance lunar exploration. This innovative wheel could allow small rovers to navigate the difficult terrain of lunar caves, which offer promising sites for future lunar bases.
Lunar caves, formed by networks of lava tubes and deep pits, provide shelter from harsh cosmic radiation and extreme temperature fluctuations. However, accessing these underground structures poses significant challenges. The steep and rugged terrain surrounding cave entrances can impede traditional small rovers, which are often limited by their compact wheels. These wheels typically struggle to climb over obstacles much larger than their own diameter, making it difficult to traverse the lunar landscape.
To address this issue, the research team has created a variable diameter wheel that can expand when necessary, allowing it to overcome obstacles before contracting for efficient travel. Despite the hostile lunar environment, which includes fine, abrasive dust and the risk of cold welding that affects mechanical systems, the team’s design has shown promise.
The new wheel combines principles from Leonardo da Vinci’s self-supporting bridge designs with origami folding techniques. This allows the wheel to transform without traditional mechanical joints. It features an elastic metal frame and fabric tensioners that flex rather than pivot, enabling it to expand from a compact 230 millimeters to 500 millimeters in diameter.
Rigorous Testing and Scientific Significance
Testing conducted with artificial lunar soil revealed that the wheel maintains superior traction on loose slopes. It was subjected to a drop impact equivalent to falling 100 meters in lunar gravity and successfully maintained its structural integrity. The flexible yet sturdy metal frame allows for reliable transformation while supporting the rover’s weight on loose regolith.
According to Dr. Chae Kyung Sim from the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, these lunar pits represent “natural geological heritages.” The new technology brings these scientifically valuable areas within reach for exploration. Additionally, Dr. Jongtae Jang from the Korea Aerospace Research Institute highlighted that the wheel was optimized to withstand temperature fluctuations of up to 300 degrees Celsius between lunar day and night.
Professor Lee expressed optimism regarding future lunar missions, noting that while challenges with communication and power systems remain, this innovative wheel positions the research team as potential leaders in exploring the Moon’s mysterious underground frontiers.
The development of this origami wheel marks a significant step forward in lunar exploration technology, potentially paving the way for more efficient and safer missions to the Moon’s subterranean environments. As scientists continue to uncover the secrets of our celestial neighbor, innovations like this could play a crucial role in humanity’s next chapter of lunar exploration.