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Active TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 5)
Rego-LIFT is a compact, modular vertical conveyor that gently lifts and transports lunar regolith using a rotating drum and static central screw. By controlling drum speed and scoop geometry, it delivers adjustable throughput while minimizing dust generation and mechanical wear. Rego-LIFT directly addresses critical gaps in in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) for Artemis missions. Conducting a flight test with Rego-LIFT should de-risk and allow scaled operations, supporting NASA’s goals of establishing a long-term lunar presence.
Problem Statement
Rego-LIFT addresses the persistent issue of efficiently conveying lunar soil under lunar gravity on the moon by leveraging scoops and a static central auger to prevent blockages and maintain consistent throughput. Unlike energy-intensive belt or pneumatic systems, its low-speed rotating drum and fixed screw mechanism significantly cut power requirements and reduce wear, enhancing durability in dusty, abrasive conditions. The gentle handling of material curbs dust generation, safeguarding downstream ISRU units and habitation modules from contamination, a challenge that high-velocity transport methods struggle to overcome. Its lightweight, stackable modules allow straightforward scaling of lift height and capacity to match mission needs without imposing large payload burdens.
Technology Maturation
Flight Opportunities’ parabolic flights will deliver authentic data by capturing Rego-LIFT’s flow rates, torque profiles, and power draw specifically during lunar gravity phases, enabling us to calibrate our discrete element method (DEM) simulations and refine predictive models. We will visually characterize material behavior at the scoops, through the static auger, and at the conveyor outlet, first using controlled glass beads for calibration and then lunar simulant, to characterize flow patterns and detect any regolith arching or backflow. Real-time validation of our closed-loop control system lunar gravity will allow us to fine-tune motor sizing, and duty cycles for operation. Post-flight, we will produce updated performance maps, validated design parameters, and detailed specifications to support the development of a vacuum-qualified, TRL 5 conveyor prototype.
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