Innovative Robotics for Lunar Exploration and On-Orbit Servicing

The resurgence of lunar exploration has catalyzed a new wave of technological innovation, particularly in the field of robotic systems. As international focus shifts to the Moon, advanced robotics are becoming increasingly integral to exploration and infrastructure development. The harsh lunar environment presents unique challenges that autonomous robotics systems are uniquely equipped to address, ranging from navigation across uneven terrain to performing intricate scientific tasks. Central to this endeavor is the collaborative operation of multi-rover units. These sophisticated robots must work in unison, leveraging collective intelligence and control algorithms to maximize efficiency and mission success. As we prepare for a sustained lunar presence, the link to maintenance and servicing capabilities becomes clear; robotics in Moon orbit are crucial. Robotic arms mounted on spacecraft extend human capabilities, enabling in-situ repairs, construction, and even the assembly of space structures—a critical aspect of on-orbit servicing. Furthermore, the Artemis Gateway Space Station stands as a cornerstone of this new era, serving as a pivotal staging point for lunar missions. The deployment and utilization of robotics in this orbiting facility underscore the significance of innovation in hardware and software, which are vital for ensuring the safety, reliability, and continuity of space operations. This backdrop of rapid advancement propels us to explore the frontiers of lunar robotics and the pivotal advancements in on-orbit spacecraft servicing—a realm brimming with opportunities for scientific breakthroughs and the next leap in space exploration strategies.

This Research Topic aims to address the complex challenges of autonomous operation and cooperation in extraterrestrial environments, particularly on the Moon. We aim to explore the design and deployment of advanced robotics systems capable of overcoming the Moon’s extreme conditions, focusing on autonomous navigation, and the execution of scientific tasks with minimal human input. A pivotal aspect of this theme is enhancing multi-rover operations through collaborative behaviors and novel control algorithms, to improve mission efficiency and success. Concurrently, we aim to advance the field of on-orbit spacecraft servicing by developing robotic arms capable of maintenance, repair, and assembly tasks, crucial for continuous operations in Moon orbit. Incorporating recent advances in robotics hardware and software, our research will contribute to the sustainability of lunar exploration and set a foundation for the Artemis Gateway Space Station’s operational support, scientific research, and overall mission success. This effort aligns with the goals of major space agencies and the private space industry to establish a human and robotic presence on the Moon by 2025 and beyond.

To gather further insights into the development and deployment of advanced robotics systems for lunar exploration and orbital servicing, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Autonomous systems for lunar exploration, focusing on rover technologies
- Integration of collaborative intelligence in multi-rover missions
- Control algorithms for complex task execution and resource sharing
- Advancements in orbital robotic arms for spacecraft servicing
- Maintenance, repair, and assembly tasks to support prolonged lunar activities
- Hardware and software innovations for the Artemis Gateway Space Station
- Operational, scientific, and logistical support for space missions
- Case studies of successful missions or experiments involving Moon rover operations or spacecraft-mounted robotic arms