Intelligent Unmanned Explorer for Deep Space Exploration

TL;DR

This paper presents the design, intelligence, and experimental results of a tiny rover developed for in-situ surface exploration of asteroids, contributing to space science and sample return missions.

Contribution

It introduces a novel unmanned explorer with advanced mobility and intelligence systems specifically designed for asteroid surface exploration.

Findings

Successful ground experiments demonstrating mobility and control.

Flight results confirming operational capabilities in space-like conditions.

Enhanced in-situ exploration potential for future asteroid missions.

Abstract

asteroids or comets have received remarkable attention in the world. In small body explorations, especially, detailed in-situ surface exploration by tiny rover is one of effective and fruitful means and is expected to make strong contributions towards scientific studies. JAXA ISAS is promoting MUSES C mission, which is the worlds first sample and return attempt to or from the near earth asteroid. Hayabusa spacecraft in MUSES C mission took the tiny rover, which was expected to perform the in-situ surface exploration by hopping. This paper describes the system design, mobility and intelligence of the developed unmanned explorer. This paper also presents the ground experimental results and the flight results.