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ETH Zurich students develop a hopping robot for asteroid exploration


S


tudents from ETH in Zurich, Switzerland, are developing a robot for asteroid exploration. Part of the SpaceHopper project,


the robot has legs, used for jumping in low gravity environments.


It is expected that one day soon, this type of robot will be used in space missions to explore small celestial bodies like asteroids and moons.


A powerful tool The project started two and a half years ago, which has now grown with a larger team and more investment to address challenges like very low gravity (microgravity) and parabolic flight.


92 May 2024 | Automation


The SpaceHopper is a lightweight platform, with three legs that give it three degrees of freedom each, for jumping in low gravity. Movement in any direction is easy, thanks to the lack of predetermined orientation. With this novel approach, the ETH Zurich team developed an entirely new movement concept for efficient travel in microgravity. It comprises six movement abilities that ensure reliable and fast travel on an asteroid, including hopping to cover large distances, attitude control during flight, controlled landing with self- adjustment, precise short-distance movement and the ability to carry a scientific payload.


The SpaceHopper combines the power of nine motors to enable its robust and precise take-off and be able to overcome large obstacles and long distances. Leg movements allow it to reorientate itself without any flywheels, which ensures that it lands on its feet at any time. This enables soft landing without uncontrolled bouncing.


Celestial exploration Humankind plans to explore small celestial bodies like asteroids and moons, not only to gain insights into the universe’s formation, but to one day extract valuable resources like minerals that could find application on Earth.


automationmagazine.co.uk


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