← Back to NASA Technology Projects

Digital Astronaut Simuation for Lunar Surface Operations

Completed TRL 5 (started at 4, targeting 5)

Description

The Digital Astronaut Simuation for Lunar Surface Operations project is important for providing pre-flight insight into the representativeness of our ground-based training. ADP areas will be addressed through assessment of relevant task kinematics & kinetics to ultimately inform lunar sampling and surface science approaches. Phase 1 – ADP 6: Lunar sampling R&D for Reqts & Approach; ADP 7: Surface science prioritization, planning, and ops prioritization development & integration. We regularly apply human modeling capabilities in exercise related projects. In CIF Year 1, we explored the terms which can be used to inform lunar applications and incorporated them as available outputs from our tool, investigated human model improvements, and completed limited unsuited laboratory testing. Current biomechanics modeling efforts in industry, academia, or the government are generally limited to 1G environments and primarily target rehabilitation and sports performance.

Benefits

The Digital Astronaut Simuation for Lunar Surface Operations will use data collection paired with human biomechanics modeling to observe the lunar surface task motion in 1/6G and assess dynamic feasibility, including indicators of falling. It is our intent to test this technology in relevant settings and increase fidelity of models to represent xEVA aspects. This capability can be used as a tool for assessing ground-based training. Enhanced understanding of potential differences between training and flight will benefit mission safety & success.

Details

Technology areaGround, Test, and Surface Systems > Test and Qualification Environments > V&V of Ground, Test, and Surface Systems
ProgramCenter Innovation Fund: JSC CIF (JSC CIF)
Lead organizationJohnson Space Center, Houston, TX
Start date2020-10-01
End date2021-09-30

Project contacts

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

How to get involved

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — 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.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.