Lunar Construction Site Mapping for Exploitation of Geotechnical Features

X-Hab 3D and Penn State propose an integrated Ground-Penetrating Radar/Multispectral Sensor (GPR/MSS) module that integrates a total station for precise localization. This innovation targets robotic lunar construction, where it is critical to identify hazards, map resource-rich areas, and autonomously prepare construction sites. By combining high-resolution subsurface scanning (GPR) with precise positioning and real-time control (total station and robotic arm), the system can detect rocks or voids, gauge regolith thickness, and locate potential water-ice deposits. Such real-time subsurface awareness bolsters safety, reduces mission risks, and aligns with NASA’s broader in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) strategies. Phase I funding will be allocated to integrating the GPR and total station within a single operational platform, constructing a controlled sandbox environment for testing, and developing software to acquire and analyze sensor data in real time. Experiments will show how GPR data can inform autonomous site preparation and regolith-based construction. This early-stage effort will validate key performance metrics including sensor accuracy, data reliability, and integration robustness, thereby paving the way for future scaling and refinement in Phase II. Beyond lunar applications, this GPR/MSS solution holds significant commercial and governmental potential on Earth, enabling geotechnical surveys, construction site evaluations, and non-destructive testing in diverse environments. Such versatility positions the technology as appealing to both space and traditional industries where rapid, high-fidelity subsurface data is paramount.

As NASA advances toward a sustained lunar presence under the Artemis program, reliable infrastructure becomes paramount. The GPR/MSS technology delivers essential geotechnical data, such as rock distribution, soil composition, and subsurface hazards, to inform the design of safe landing pads, foundations, and stabilized pathways. By identifying hidden voids or unstable layers in real time, it significantly reduces risk for both crewed and robotic missions. The system also supports in-situ resource utilization objectives by detecting regolith suitable for construction and life-support applications. In alignment with existing CLPS-scale mobility platforms, this technology enhances NASA’s goals for autonomous site preparation and large-scale lunar construction. Its lightweight, modular design aligns with the agency’s pursuit of smaller, cost-effective systems adaptable to varying payload capacities. By promoting robust infrastructure and in-situ building methods, the GPR/MSS platform contributes to an emerging lunar economy and fosters commercial partnerships. Ultimately, its high-resolution subsurface mapping and structural assessments support safer human exploration and lay the groundwork for extending crewed missions deeper into the solar system. The development of an integrated Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and Multispectral Sensor (MSS) module for mobile construction platforms presents extensive applications across commercial (residential and non-residential) and governmental (military and civil) sectors. This technology enables non-invasive site surveys in urban, rural, and remote locations, and maps subsurface conditions such as voids, cavities, sinkholes, and rebar location without the need for extensive drilling. A case for the use of this technology is the assessment of permafrost conditions in rural Alaska to inform residential housing construction, which can be further enhanced by integrating this capability with mobile 3D concrete printing (3DCP) systems like those developed by X-Hab 3D. Additionally, the system supports post-construction structural monitoring by tracking crack propagation in concrete structures and verifying rebar placement, ensuring long-term durability of structures. By enhancing efficiency, mitigating risk, and providing deeper insights into subsurface conditions, this integrated solution offers significant value to industries focused on infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and resource exploration.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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