Geotechnical Regolith Advanced Site Preparation (GRASP)

For Cislunes Phase II STTR Proposal, Rover Wheel Compaction and Analysis Framework, we will significantly advance the development of optimized rover wheel designs and geotechnical methods to enable the construction of durable regolith-based infrastructure on the lunar surface. In Phase I, the team found a wheel design capable of increasing the Cone Penetrometer Index (CPI) by 20%, proving that wheel topology has a direct and significant impact on compaction. Building on these successes, we will refine Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations in conjunction with topology optimization techniques to create wheel topologies that maximize compaction. This optimization is essential for maximizing compaction efficiency, minimizing slippage, and ensuring the creation of engineered surfaces capable of supporting heavy loads. These wheels and the algorithms designed in Phase I will be integrated into a sophisticated robotic excavation system, equipped with real-time, modular geotechnical characterization tools, including a bevameter, and wheel drive system telemetry capable of predicting the CPI. These tools will continuously monitor and assess the mechanical properties of the regolith during the construction process, allowing for dynamic adjustments to excavation and compaction operations. The topology-optimized wheel designs will ensure optimal interaction with lunar regolith, resulting in stable, load-bearing surfaces that meet stringent requirements for lunar missions. The project will culminate in a full-scale demonstration of the robotic construction of a compacted regolith landing pad and surrounding berm, providing critical validation of the technologies developed and their readiness for deployment in NASAs Artemis program. This work aims to equip NASA with the tools necessary to establish permanent, safe, and reliable infrastructure in the challenging lunar environment, supporting the broader objectives of sustained human exploration and settlement on the Moon. Cislune’s proposed technology is crucial for constructing stable, durable infrastructure on the Moon, directly addressing the challenges of lunar surface site preparation. Our innovative rover wheel designs, optimized through Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations and topology optimization, promise up to a 20% improvement in regolith compaction and reduced slippage. Current state-of-the-art (SOA) lunar construction methods struggle with material instability, limiting load-bearing capacity and mission success. Our approach advances the SOA by integrating real-time geotechnical characterization tools, such as a bevameter, cone penetrometer, and wheel data, into a robotic system capable of dynamically adjusting compaction strategies based on in-situ data. This enables precise construction of landing pads, roads, and foundations, critical for NASA’s Artemis program and other lunar missions. Our technology will offer a foundational, scalable, and reliable solution for long-term lunar exploration and settlement. Cislune's Phase II objectives are to refine and optimize rover wheel designs and integrate advanced geotechnical tools for constructing stable lunar infrastructure, such as landing pads and roads. We aim to improve compaction efficiency and reduce slippage through Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations, topology optimization, and genetic algorithms. These designs will be integrated into a robotic excavation system capable of real-time geotechnical monitoring and adaptive compaction, ensuring reliable, load-bearing surfaces. Proposed Deliverables: Optimized Rover Wheel Designs: High-performance, validated designs ready for integration into robotic systems. Demonstration Report: Detailed documentation of the construction of a compacted regolith landing pad at Cislune’s lunar analog site, including geotechnical mapping and load-bearing assessments. Geotechnical Tools Test Report: Comprehensive evaluation and test results of bevameter and other in-situ regolith analysis tools. Refined DEM Models: A comparative analysis report of DEM simulations with traditional traction models, validated through practical testing. Integrated Design Tool: A design tool that combines DEM, topology optimization, and genetic algorithms to automate and optimize the design of rover wheels for specific lunar surface conditions.

Cislune's optimized rover wheels and geotechnical tools can be applied to NASA's Human Landing System (HLS) for constructing stable launch and landing facilities, and tested on CLPS landers. These technologies support Lunar Terrain Vehicle Services (LTVS) by providing compacted, durable surfaces for rover operations and could enhance Vertical Solar Array Technology (VSAT) by stabilizing ground in challenging lunar terrain, ensuring reliable, long-term infrastructure for sustained Artemis program missions. Cislune's technologies have broad non-NASA applications, including creating stable foundations for habitats, roads, and infrastructure on the Moon, Mars, and Earth. Optimized compaction tools can improve construction on soft or challenging terrains, reducing the need for imported materials for infrastructure like landing pads, and foundations.

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.

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