Lunar localization for rovers and EVAs using full scene panoramas

Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 5)

Description

Surface missions to the Moon involving autonomous and human operations will require accurate geolocation to coordinate multi-agent docking (e.g., network of coupled robots), improve spatial mapping for science, and ensure extravehicular activity (EVA) safety. This project involves position estimation using the core flight system (cFS) Goddard Image Analysis and Navigation Tool (cGIANT), expands on previous optical techniques, evaluates algorithm robustness with existing and new lunar datasets, designs and implements breadboard prototype hardware, and tests the prototype hardware and software at a terrestrial lunar analog site.

Benefits

Future missions to the Moon will require self-sufficient onboard localization for rover and human surface mobility. For a human lunar presence, the need for this technology development is immediate, given plans to return to the Moon by 2024 and fostering more robust operations thereafter. Risk reduction for lunar EVAs is already identified as one of the highest priority needs for the agency, particularly for Search and Rescue (SAR) and other handheld technology developments. Science missions would also benefit from this work; geolocalizing can be used to seamlessly document the exact location and orientation of samples for context in science analysis.

Details

Technology area	Communications, Navigation, and Orbital Debris Tracking and Characterization Systems
Program	Center Independent Research & Development: GSFC IRAD (GSFC IRAD)
Lead organization	Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD
Start date	2021-10-01
End date	2025-09-30

Project contacts

Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.

Bradley T Hill — bradley.t.hill@nasa.gov
Cheryl J Gramling — cheryl.j.gramling@nasa.gov
Kendall D Mauldin — kendall.d.mauldin@nasa.gov
Lavida D Cooper — lavida.d.cooper@nasa.gov
Andrew J Liounis
Alvin G Yew — alvin.yew@nasa.gov
Carolina I Restrepo — carolina.i.restrepo@nasa.gov
Cody P Kelly — cody.kelly-1@nasa.gov
Erwan M Mazarico — erwan.m.mazarico@nasa.gov

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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